Teaching Philosophy
Early Artists
Pre-K – 2nd Grade
Novel Art Studio is a boutique art academy centered on personalized instruction and individual creativity. Each student is guided according to their age, interests, abilities, and natural strengths, allowing them to learn and grow at their own pace. With small classes, students receive continuous one-on-one interaction and real time guidance while developing skills, exploring ideas, and building creative confidence. Rather than simply following step-by-step projects, students are encouraged to experiment, make their own choices, and create artwork that is unique and truly their own.
For our youngest artists, art should be fun, engaging, and full of discovery. Each class introduces children to a wide variety of materials, techniques, and subject matter—from painting, drawing, pastels, collage, and cutting to nature-inspired projects, seasonal themes, holidays, and discovering the work of famous artists. Projects are guided and adapted to the children’s interests while leaving plenty of room for them to experiment, make their own choices, and express their individual ideas. The goal is not for every child’s artwork to look the same, but for each child to leave with something uniquely their own. Students also have access to an extensive collection of art materials that I have gathered over many years as an artist and designer, giving them opportunities to explore and experiment with supplies they may not ordinarily encounter. All materials are included, so families don’t need to purchase a long list of supplies as children experience many different forms of art.
Developing Artists
3rd–6th Grade
At this stage, students begin building stronger foundations in drawing, color theory, perspective, composition, and other age-appropriate technical skills, with instruction adapted to each child’s individual ability and progress. As students develop, we maintain open communication about their interests, goals, and what they hope to gain from their art classes.
For students who simply love making art, classes can continue to emphasize creative exploration and process art, with a wide variety of materials, techniques, and subject matter. Students who want to pursue art more seriously can follow a more focused path, developing specific skills and techniques through increasingly challenging projects tailored to their individual goals. There is no single path every student is expected to follow—the program grows with each child.
Advancing Artists
7th Grade & Up
At this level, instruction becomes more individualized in a very small semi-private or private setting. Students are guided according to their skill level, interests, and artistic goals, with opportunities to focus more deeply on areas such as portrait and observational drawing, watercolor painting, colored pencil, markers, manga, and animation-inspired drawing. Students also continue to explore the work of famous and contemporary artists while being exposed to a variety of artistic styles and approaches. My background in fine art, fashion design, and professional design allows me to guide students beyond technical skills, helping them make intentional choices in color, color coordination, composition, design, and personal style. Students interested in fashion design can also explore both fashion illustration and technical aspects of design, while others can pursue increasingly specialized and independent projects based on their own interests.
For students who are serious about pursuing art, I offer personalized mentorship in developing a strong body of work and preparing portfolios for college applications. Students with a specific goal of applying to an art or design college can follow a customized path based on their interests, intended area of study, and individual portfolio goals.
Meet Chloe
Founder & Lead Instructor
I grew up between Korea, New Jersey, and San Jose, where art was a constant part of my life. Surrounded by family of artists, I spent much of my childhood in creative environments, which shaped my connection to art. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Parsons School of Design in New York. I have a strong foundation in visual arts built through years of dedicated study and practice beginning in early childhood. I spent over a decade working as a women's fashion designer in New York City, Los Angeles and Italy, where I strengthened my ability to translate ideas into original work, design technical skills, and think creatively.
After becoming a mother, my priorities shifted toward establishing a creative environment at home with my child. During the Covid period, I began teaching art classes with my then kindergartener daughter and a few neighborhood children. My passion for teaching, combined with a genuine love for working with children, evolved into a lasting commitment. This experience became the foundation for what is now Novel Art Studio, a boutique art academy centered on mentorship, creativity, and individualized artistic growth.
My background in design continues to shape the way I teach. I guide students how to think creatively, approach their work with confidence, and develop a distinct artistic style of their own that sets them apart.