Guest Instructor

Rock Painting is for all ages. 

-No skill is required. 

-All supplies will be provided, including aprons. 

We’ll start by painting a simple ladybug to learn how fun and easy it can be. 

We’ll learn how to: prepare the rocks, practice different painting techniques using acrylic paint, learn a little about how to make mandalas (geometric designs), and how to seal the rocks when finished. 

A variety of rocks will be provided for those who would like to try their hand at painting something else after finishing the ladybug.

Rock painting not only brings joy to the painter but also puts smiles on faces in the community.  There is no right or wrong way in rock painting, it’s whatever works for the artist creating it.  Once you get into painting rocks you’ll be surprised how many rocks can be found as you go for a walk.  (Remember though, never take rocks from private property or public parks)

(More about the instructor below)

My name is Jackie Tanttila.  

I am an Air Force veteran and a retired elementary teacher. I worked as a Recreation Therapist in a state-run nursing home, and I was an Activity Therapist at a Psychiatric Hospital. As a therapist, I taught arts and crafts to senior citizens, adults, and youth of all ages, adapting activities so everyone could be successful.  As a teacher I used a variety of ‘hands on’ activities to help find fun ways to encourage students to express themselves.  As a volunteer I have taught numerous classes on rock painting, wood carving, sewing, Swedish weaving, ceramics, etc.  Arts and crafts are a fun way to express yourself with no judgment attached. And the best part is, it encourages people to relax and make new friends.

My husband, Harvey, and I moved to Las Cruces in Dec. 2021 from the Phoenix area.  Before that we lived in Alaska for 40 years. We are currently retired but my entire career was mostly spent working with people of all ages.