Our Story
TheArtRoom is a studio and gallery offering a variety of classes and workshops for kids and adults of all ages. We give all of our students access to the creative tools that promote self-expression and self-esteem through the visual arts. Classes are taught by practicing artists who work with each student on an individual basis. We provide instruction in many mediums while encouraging self-expression and a positive attitude.
About Our Instructors
Sandy Runnion, Owner & Program Director
Sandy has owned and operated theArtRoom for 18 years. She graduated from the Art Institute of Boston. She spent several years as a graphic designer at HBM Design Group, an in-house design studio for one of Boston’s leading advertising agencies. Sandy was a founder and partner in Runnion Design for 12 years and worked with a variety of nationally known clients. Runnion Design received many design awards including those from the Boston Art Directors Club as well as the Hatch Awards. TheArtRoom was established when Sandy’s son was in preschool as a way to be home with her children and still continue to work in the arts. As theArtRoom program grew in popularity, she found working with young artists in her community very rewarding and credits the program's success to all their creative work.
Sue Bergmann, Instructor
Sue is a graduate of Drexel University with a B.S. in Interior Design. She worked at BKM Total Office in Hartford, CT and Sharp & White Assoc. Inc., Architects in Philadelphia, PA. Sue enjoys working with young children. She has worked at theArtRoom since 2002 and at Joyful Noises Preschool in Topsfield since 2003. Becoming involved in the community is very important to Sue and she has held many volunteer positions such as Youth Program Director and Teen Program Director for the Friends of the Topsfield Library. Currently she is serving on the Art Committee for the Topsfield Library.
Diane Walsh, Instructor
Diane received her BFA in Studio Art from Ithaca College, and her MAT in Art Education through the School of the Museum of Fine Arts-Tufts University. She began her teaching career with Montserrat College of Art’s children’s program teaching grades K-3, and went on to assume the role of Lower School Art teacher at Shore Country Day School where she taught grades K-4. Diane’s own children enjoyed taking classes at theArtRoom throughout their elementary school years. She is so happy to have the opportunity to work with theArtRoom students!
Adrienne Roberto, Instructor
Adrienne is a resident of Topsfield who received her BA in Psychology and Fine Arts from Georgetown University where she was awarded the inaugural DaVinci Medal of Excellence in the arts. For over 15 years, she has been teaching evenings and some summers at the ArtRoom. In addition, she teaches math and works in the learning center at the Governor’s Academy, and she is a private tutor. Prior to Governor’s, Adrienne taught both art and math at the Brimmer and May School. As a young child, Adrienne discovered her passion for both subjects, and she loves supporting her students pursue their passions.
Cici Martignetti, Instructor
Cici graduated from The University of Vermont with a degree in Art Education and a minor in Special Education. Her love for art grew while she was a student at theArtRoom! Ever since then she has sought out learning all different forms of art and has combined it with her passion of working with students of all ages.”
Bonnie Ashmore, Instructor
Bonnie received her MFA in painting from American University and a BA and Post-Baccalaureate certificate from Brandeis University in Studio Art. Bonnie is an artist and educator with experience teaching students of all ages. She spent over 20 years teaching K-12 art (including 10 years in the Tritown system) before making the switch to higher education. Currently she teaches full time at North Shore Community College in their Visual Studies program. In addition, she teaches Pre-College classes for teens at Montserrat College of Art. Bonnie is a member of Gallery 263 in Cambridge, MA and has a 12 year old daughter who loves to draw.
Maria Malatesta, Instructor
Maria lives on Cape Ann. It is this spectacular and changing landscape that contributes to her artistic sensibility. Maria has shown her work extensively in Boston and the North Shore. Solo shows include Jane Deering Gallery in Gloucester, Montserrat College of Art, Porter Mill Gallery in Beverly, Chameleon Gallery in Newburyport and Main Street Gallery in Winters, CA. She has taught at the Artroom in Topsfield, Montserrat College of Art, the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck and international programs in Tortola, BVI and Umbria, Italy. Maria received the Diploma and Fifth Year Certificate from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and a Bachelor of Science from Lesley College, Cambridge MA. She has attended numerous residencies and workshops which include Art New England and SMFA programs in Venice, Italy. She has twice received a grant to the Vermont Studio Center. Her studio is in the South End of Boston.