Our Instructors

Elizabeth Reed
Owner/Senior Artist
​Elizabeth Fortson is Owner/Senior Artist here at Painting with Art and Soul. She has over 30 years experience in medical device management. She comes from a family very much rooted in the community. Her father and mother were successful business owners. She loves painting and adds a lot of personality to the business. Fortson is a graduate of University of Tennessee, and LMU graduate with a MBA.

Katie
Gaines
Owner/Artist
Katie Gaines is talented, smart and energetic. She is a Claiborne High graduate with a degree in International Business from Maryville College. Katie loves being Brinley's mom and is a true dog lover. She loves crafting, cooking, and time with her family. She has her Papaw QG Fortson's smile and work ethic!

Jaymin Huddelson
Artist
Jaymin is a dynamic young lady. In college at LMU, studying and playing golf fill her time each week. Jaymin is a talented artist and works great with small children and youth. She has supported our Art Camps, Christmas workshops and other events.

Laura Heselschwerdt
Artist
I think art is important for children because it encourages creativity and I want to help them learn how to harness that creativity and make something out of it! I can't wait to paint with all these little artists! I enjoy hiking, reading, and art of any sort. On Saturdays I usually take my daughter and dog for a nice hike, I love spending time surrounded by Gods creations. To me, painting means creating something, putting thoughts and ideas on a page to see what I can make with them. Sure, it may not always turn out how I wanted it to, but as long as I tried my best and enjoyed painting it, I think that's what really matters.

Brinley
Surber
Youth Artist
Brinley leads a paint class to teach our youth students. She received the Youngest Enterpreneur Award at the 2023 Claiborne Economic Partnership Gala She is a talented and dedicated young girl. She loves adventures with GranMom including painting on canvas and pottery. She also loves soccer and many other creative hobbies.

Brittany Danielle
Artist
Brittany grew up in Claiborne County and currently works in Physical Therapy there now. It is important to her to give back to her community. She has been interested in painting, drawing and crafting, since a young child. Self taught to draw and paint! She enjoys anything she can get her hands on and transform from plain to beautiful. Brittany enjoys gardening and decorating.

Kinley
Cox
Artist
Kinley is a sharp, talented young lady. A college student at East Tennessee State University, she is focused and actively preparing for her future. She has supported our Art Camps, Christmas workshops and other events. Kinley loves children and is a great influence.