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WHO WE ARE
STUDENT STORIES
STUDENT STORIES
Our students come from the city of Lowell and surrounding communities, each bringing their own story to Refuge.
At Refuge, we keep art accessible for all, with no financial or skill-based barriers to joining. Here, our students share what art means to them, the challenges they’ve faced, and how Refuge has helped them grow as artists and compassionate leaders. Get to know the people behind the art and what inspires them.
TESTIMONIALS
TESTIMONIALS
Our community has a lot to share about their experiences with Refuge Art School! From students to parents and supporters, these testimonials offer a glimpse into the impact of our programs. Hear firsthand how Refuge has inspired growth, creativity, and connection for everyone involved.
“At this point, Refuge has always been a second home to me. Without it, I’d be a different person with different goals. I’d be lost. -- I’m in charge of my own path.”
- Nevaeh, 20
Student, Co-Instructor, Public Artist
3+ Years at Refuge
“When I saw Refuge I was so excited to paint and be de-stressed -- It lets me expose my creativity, knowledge, and calms my anxiety and my worry’s.”
-Michael, 11
Student, Event Team
2+ Years at Refuge
“Refuge taught me to take up space. To be bold in my art and proud of both my work and myself.
-- Everything about Refuge matters. I’m not being dramatic—it’s changed everything.”
- Lee, 18
Student, Work-study
6+ Years at Refuge
“The entire time I’ve been here has been the most welcoming and peaceful experience, -- Refuge is a safe space that connects young artists like me—and I’ve come a long way.”
- Julia, 15
Student, Public Art Participant
5 Years at Refuge
OUR TEAM
OUR TEAM
Our professional team includes talented working artists from the community, each bringing passion, expertise, and a commitment to nurturing creativity. They’re here to inspire and empower our students every day, helping to make Refuge a vibrant space for growth.
Nikki Giraffo
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Nikki Giraffo is a licensed arts educator and mixed media artist with over two decades of experience in both teaching and creative practice. Her teaching career has spanned a wide range of educational settings—including alternative, residential, private, and public schools—before founding her own community-based studio.
As the founder and director of Refuge, she has spent the last 11 years cultivating an inclusive and transformative space for young artists to explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover the power of their own voices. Rooted in the belief that storytelling through art can lead to healing and social change, Nikki's work at Refuge centers students’ lived experiences, helping them understand that their perspectives matter.
Her goal is not only to foster strong technical and conceptual foundations in the arts, but to raise a generation of kind, compassionate individuals who care deeply about the world around them. Nikki’s personal art practice is grounded in messy, visceral mixed media work that often reflects raw emotion and intuitive process. Having found her own voice through art at a young age, she is committed to passing that same opportunity on to others.
Nikki Giraffo is a licensed arts educator and mixed media artist with over two decades of experience in both teaching and creative practice. Her teaching career has spanned a wide range of educational settings—including alternative, residential, private, and public schools—before founding her own community-based studio.
As the founder and director of Refuge, she has spent the last 11 years cultivating an inclusive and transformative space for young artists to explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover the power of their own voices. Rooted in the belief that storytelling through art can lead to healing and social change, Nikki's work at Refuge centers students’ lived experiences, helping them understand that their perspectives matter.
Her goal is not only to foster strong technical and conceptual foundations in the arts, but to raise a generation of kind, compassionate individuals who care deeply about the world around them. Nikki’s personal art practice is grounded in messy, visceral mixed media work that often reflects raw emotion and intuitive process. Having found her own voice through art at a young age, she is committed to passing that same opportunity on to others.
Four Nichols
Co-Founder & Facilities Manager
4 Nichols is a practicing installation artist, woodworker, and veteran with a background that bridges the creative and natural sciences. Born in Gloucester, Massachusetts, 4 has spent much of his life traveling the globe, drawing inspiration from diverse landscapes and cultures.
With a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Geology from Salem State University, his artistic practice centers on sustainable design, reclaimed materials, and creative problem-solving. His work often reflects a deep respect for the natural world and a commitment to unique, functional design solutions.
A former certified instructor in the United States Air Force and a co-founder of Refuge, 4 brings nearly a decade of hands-on technical experience to the “Build Something!” program. He approaches every project with clarity, curiosity, and a belief in the power of direct engagement. As a mentor and educator, he champions critical thinking, positive youth development, and the value of individualized artistic expression.
4 Nichols is a practicing installation artist, woodworker, and veteran with a background that bridges the creative and natural sciences. Born in Gloucester, Massachusetts, 4 has spent much of his life traveling the globe, drawing inspiration from diverse landscapes and cultures.
With a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Geology from Salem State University, his artistic practice centers on sustainable design, reclaimed materials, and creative problem-solving. His work often reflects a deep respect for the natural world and a commitment to unique, functional design solutions.
A former certified instructor in the United States Air Force and a co-founder of Refuge, 4 brings nearly a decade of hands-on technical experience to the “Build Something!” program. He approaches every project with clarity, curiosity, and a belief in the power of direct engagement. As a mentor and educator, he champions critical thinking, positive youth development, and the value of individualized artistic expression.
John Haiduk
Operations Manager & Public Art
John Haiduk, also known by his artist name SKRIBBLES, is a multidisciplinary artist, event organizer, and active member of the Lowell arts community. A resident of Western Avenue Lofts for nearly four years, John merges his background in Mechanical Engineering with a passion for abstract art, exploring the intersection of technological innovation and creative expression.
John’s journey as an artist began with black-and-white pen drawings and has since evolved into a dynamic practice full of bold color and texture. As a live painter and collaborator, he brings his unique style to public spaces while also creating platforms for other artists through community events, including speed painting competitions and collaborative installations.
Since the beginning of 2024, John has served as Refuge’s Operations Manager. In this role, he brings both precision and play to his work, helping shape systems behind the scenes while supporting young artists in their growth. Driven by a desire to build community and leave a meaningful impact, John continues to blend creativity, collaboration, and care in all he does.
John Haiduk, also known by his artist name SKRIBBLES, is a multidisciplinary artist, event organizer, and active member of the Lowell arts community. A resident of Western Avenue Lofts for nearly four years, John merges his background in Mechanical Engineering with a passion for abstract art, exploring the intersection of technological innovation and creative expression.
John’s journey as an artist began with black-and-white pen drawings and has since evolved into a dynamic practice full of bold color and texture. As a live painter and collaborator, he brings his unique style to public spaces while also creating platforms for other artists through community events, including speed painting competitions and collaborative installations.
Since the beginning of 2024, John has served as Refuge’s Operations Manager. In this role, he brings both precision and play to his work, helping shape systems behind the scenes while supporting young artists in their growth. Driven by a desire to build community and leave a meaningful impact, John continues to blend creativity, collaboration, and care in all he does.
Yahira Torres
Student Development Specialist
Yahira Torres is a multidisciplinary professional whose career bridges business, education, art, and healing. With a background in Business Administration and Graphic Design from Middlesex Community College and a BFA with a minor in Art History from UMass Lowell, she brings both strategic insight and creative passion to every role. Currently the Operations Manager at Western Avenue Studios, Yahira previously spent over a decade as a Business Manager for a STEM-based youth organization, and she is also the founder and CEO of Lion-ess Retreat—a nonprofit that creates restorative spaces for cancer survivors.
Driven by color, shape, and the emotional power of visual storytelling, Yahira describes art as her lifelong escape and source of healing. From childhood days spent scrapbooking to her present-day work deconstructing everyday discoveries into basic forms, art has fueled her growth, empathy, and belief in the transformative power of creativity.
As a breast cancer survivor with the BRCA2+ genetic mutation, Yahira openly shares her story to encourage others to find joy, express themselves, and pursue the things that matter most. “Life is too short not to,” she says. At Refuge, she brings that same philosophy—helping students grow in confidence, embrace their identities, and connect across differences through art. “I aim to empower others to share their stories, support one another, and make Lowell a place where everyone can thrive.”
Yahira Torres is a multidisciplinary professional whose career bridges business, education, art, and healing. With a background in Business Administration and Graphic Design from Middlesex Community College and a BFA with a minor in Art History from UMass Lowell, she brings both strategic insight and creative passion to every role. Currently the Operations Manager at Western Avenue Studios, Yahira previously spent over a decade as a Business Manager for a STEM-based youth organization, and she is also the founder and CEO of Lion-ess Retreat—a nonprofit that creates restorative spaces for cancer survivors.
Driven by color, shape, and the emotional power of visual storytelling, Yahira describes art as her lifelong escape and source of healing. From childhood days spent scrapbooking to her present-day work deconstructing everyday discoveries into basic forms, art has fueled her growth, empathy, and belief in the transformative power of creativity.
As a breast cancer survivor with the BRCA2+ genetic mutation, Yahira openly shares her story to encourage others to find joy, express themselves, and pursue the things that matter most. “Life is too short not to,” she says. At Refuge, she brings that same philosophy—helping students grow in confidence, embrace their identities, and connect across differences through art. “I aim to empower others to share their stories, support one another, and make Lowell a place where everyone can thrive.”
Courtney Wilson
Visual Arts Instructor & Marketing
Courtney Wilson is a Portfolio Development Instructor and Marketing professional with nine years of experience in the field and a strong foundation in graphic design. She has taught at Refuge for nine years and also serves as an adjunct professor. Courtney is an interdisciplinary artist who creates abstracted impressionistic landscapes, perspective drawings from her travels, figure sculptures in clay, and nature-inspired gellie prints.
Art is her spiritual practice. It offers a way to express emotions beyond words and provides calm, peace, and grounding. Courtney’s path was shaped by her former high school art teacher, Nikki Giraffo, who empowered her as a young artist and continues to mentor her. Teaching at Refuge allows Courtney to give that same support to the next generation.
She hopes to continue fostering a safe, creative environment for the community. Outside of the studio, Courtney loves to travel, explore new places, and collect meaningful moments.
Check out her artist page at: http://cwils067.wixsite.com/courtneywilson and her Instagram: @courtneywilsonarts
Courtney Wilson is a Portfolio Development Instructor and Marketing professional with nine years of experience in the field and a strong foundation in graphic design. She has taught at Refuge for nine years and also serves as an adjunct professor. Courtney is an interdisciplinary artist who creates abstracted impressionistic landscapes, perspective drawings from her travels, figure sculptures in clay, and nature-inspired gellie prints.
Art is her spiritual practice. It offers a way to express emotions beyond words and provides calm, peace, and grounding. Courtney’s path was shaped by her former high school art teacher, Nikki Giraffo, who empowered her as a young artist and continues to mentor her. Teaching at Refuge allows Courtney to give that same support to the next generation.
She hopes to continue fostering a safe, creative environment for the community. Outside of the studio, Courtney loves to travel, explore new places, and collect meaningful moments.
Check out her artist page at: http://cwils067.wixsite.com/courtneywilson and her Instagram: @courtneywilsonarts
Alex DiMauro
Sewing & Upcycling Instructor
Alexandra May DiMauro (she/her), also known as Alex, is an upcycling fashion designer, protest artist, and educator committed to sustainability, self-expression, and community empowerment through art. A graduate of Lesley University College of Art and Design (2018), Alex is the founder of her own fashion brand, Mayfly, and has been a full-time artist since moving to Western Avenue Lofts in 2021.
From a young age, Alex found creative expression to be a powerful form of communication—an outlet that has shaped her identity and fueled her work. At Refuge, she teaches sewing and upcycling classes, helping students reimagine existing materials and connect with both personal and local histories.
Inspired by Lowell’s roots as a textile city, Alex is passionate about breathing new life into discarded garments and materials. She believes that transforming textiles can be both healing and hopeful—offering a sustainable way forward for both fashion and community.
Alexandra May DiMauro (she/her), also known as Alex, is an upcycling fashion designer, protest artist, and educator committed to sustainability, self-expression, and community empowerment through art. A graduate of Lesley University College of Art and Design (2018), Alex is the founder of her own fashion brand, Mayfly, and has been a full-time artist since moving to Western Avenue Lofts in 2021.
From a young age, Alex found creative expression to be a powerful form of communication—an outlet that has shaped her identity and fueled her work. At Refuge, she teaches sewing and upcycling classes, helping students reimagine existing materials and connect with both personal and local histories.
Inspired by Lowell’s roots as a textile city, Alex is passionate about breathing new life into discarded garments and materials. She believes that transforming textiles can be both healing and hopeful—offering a sustainable way forward for both fashion and community.
Carolyn McCarthy
Dance Instructor
Peter Fadness
Visual Arts Instructor
Peter Fadness is an illustrator, conceptual artist, and educator who believes in the transformative power of art to build empathy, spark curiosity, and shift perspectives. Originally from a small town in Minnesota, Peter found freedom and direction through art at an early age—an experience that shaped both his personal and professional journey.
After beginning his career teaching English and writing, Peter returned to school to pursue his passion for visual art. He has taught in various Boston-area schools and has spent the last eight years as an art educator at Lowell High School. His own work focuses on portraiture and meaning-driven concepts, blending observation with deeper narratives.
Peter was drawn to Refuge for its commitment to creating a safe and encouraging space where students of all ages can explore and express themselves through art. As an instructor, he hopes to empower Lowell’s emerging artists to find their voices and become active, engaged members of their community.
Peter Fadness is an illustrator, conceptual artist, and educator who believes in the transformative power of art to build empathy, spark curiosity, and shift perspectives. Originally from a small town in Minnesota, Peter found freedom and direction through art at an early age—an experience that shaped both his personal and professional journey.
After beginning his career teaching English and writing, Peter returned to school to pursue his passion for visual art. He has taught in various Boston-area schools and has spent the last eight years as an art educator at Lowell High School. His own work focuses on portraiture and meaning-driven concepts, blending observation with deeper narratives.
Peter was drawn to Refuge for its commitment to creating a safe and encouraging space where students of all ages can explore and express themselves through art. As an instructor, he hopes to empower Lowell’s emerging artists to find their voices and become active, engaged members of their community.
OUR STUDENT ALUMNI TEAM
A big part of our team is made up of our own students who have stepped into teaching and leadership roles. They bring unique perspectives and energy to the work, sharing their journeys while helping others grow. Meet the student leaders who are shaping the future of Refuge from the inside out.
Maritza Lezama
Programs & Projects Manager
Maritza Lezama is an artist, storyteller, and mentor whose journey with Refuge began as a high school student searching for purpose. A first-generation immigrant from Mexico, she joined the program while navigating language barriers and personal trauma—and found in art both healing and direction. “Art became my happiness,” she says. “Refuge helped me become something.”
Now, at 22, Maritza serves as Refuge’s Programs & Projects Manager. Her work is rooted in lived experience, and she brings deep empathy and insight to her role—supporting young artists with the same care and guidance that shaped her own path.
Her piece Los Refugiados, created during quarantine, was a turning point in her creative journey—giving voice to unspoken fears and marking the moment she felt truly seen. Today, Maritza continues to create, mentor, and lead, helping others find strength and self-expression through art.
Maritza Lezama is an artist, storyteller, and mentor whose journey with Refuge began as a high school student searching for purpose. A first-generation immigrant from Mexico, she joined the program while navigating language barriers and personal trauma—and found in art both healing and direction. “Art became my happiness,” she says. “Refuge helped me become something.”
Now, at 22, Maritza serves as Refuge’s Programs & Projects Manager. Her work is rooted in lived experience, and she brings deep empathy and insight to her role—supporting young artists with the same care and guidance that shaped her own path.
Her piece Los Refugiados, created during quarantine, was a turning point in her creative journey—giving voice to unspoken fears and marking the moment she felt truly seen. Today, Maritza continues to create, mentor, and lead, helping others find strength and self-expression through art.
Daryan Kong
Co-Instructor & Public Art
Daryan Kong (AKA Nayrasix) is a Cambodian-American artist from Lowell, Massachusetts, who has spent the past few years honing her painting skills. Her art draws inspiration from her background, childhood, and interests in internet culture and music, reflecting her personal experiences and emotions. While painting is her primary focus, Daryan also enjoys creating public art, contributing to installations, and participating in mural projects. As a free spirit, she encourages others to embrace their creativity and let go.
Daryan Kong (AKA Nayrasix) is a Cambodian-American artist from Lowell, Massachusetts, who has spent the past few years honing her painting skills. Her art draws inspiration from her background, childhood, and interests in internet culture and music, reflecting her personal experiences and emotions. While painting is her primary focus, Daryan also enjoys creating public art, contributing to installations, and participating in mural projects. As a free spirit, she encourages others to embrace their creativity and let go.
Eclipse Hin
Middle School Co-Instructor
Eclipse Hin is a queer Asian-American artist and Co-Instructor for our Middle School program at Refuge Art School, where she has taught for three semesters. She helps plan lessons and supports students in bringing their creative visions to life. For Eclipse, art is a lifeline, it gives her purpose and a safe space to express herself without restraint.
Refuge showed her unwavering support early on, which gave her the confidence to grow. She’s deeply committed to uplifting Lowell through art and volunteering. Eclipse’s practice is delightfully mixed-media: she paints on canvas, decorates nails, and even arranges flowers, always exploring, always creating.
Eclipse Hin is a queer Asian-American artist and Co-Instructor for our Middle School program at Refuge Art School, where she has taught for three semesters. She helps plan lessons and supports students in bringing their creative visions to life. For Eclipse, art is a lifeline, it gives her purpose and a safe space to express herself without restraint.
Refuge showed her unwavering support early on, which gave her the confidence to grow. She’s deeply committed to uplifting Lowell through art and volunteering. Eclipse’s practice is delightfully mixed-media: she paints on canvas, decorates nails, and even arranges flowers, always exploring, always creating.
Nev Morin
Portfolio Development Co-Instructor
Cloudy Rosas
Studio Coordinator & Social Media Asisstant
Cloudy Rosas is a multidisciplinary artist and Studio coordinator with five years of experience in ceramics. Their work is experimental, fluid, and expressionistic, blending mystery with emotional depth. Through their art, Cloudy has found healing and connection, and they strive to empower the Lowell community by promoting emotional well-being and trust through creativity. Cloudy also serves as a connector, working in inspiring spaces with like-minded individuals. As a mentor and leader, they hope to leave a legacy that strengthens art education and supports personal growth. In their free time, Cloudy loves to sing.
Cloudy Rosas is a multidisciplinary artist and Studio coordinator with five years of experience in ceramics. Their work is experimental, fluid, and expressionistic, blending mystery with emotional depth. Through their art, Cloudy has found healing and connection, and they strive to empower the Lowell community by promoting emotional well-being and trust through creativity. Cloudy also serves as a connector, working in inspiring spaces with like-minded individuals. As a mentor and leader, they hope to leave a legacy that strengthens art education and supports personal growth. In their free time, Cloudy loves to sing.
Nevaeh Montanez
Middle School Instructor
Nevaeh Montanez is an expressive, color-driven artist whose work reflects emotion, energy, and release. She first joined Refuge Lowell as a high school scholarship student, later returning after a brief break to deepen her practice.
“Art has always been my emotional release,” Nevaeh says. “Refuge gave me space to be myself - open, supported, and free.” Her large-scale, dynamic works are filled with movement and color, emphasizing feeling over perfection. Through Refuge, she found both creative confidence and community.
Currently building her tattoo portfolio, Nevaeh credits Refuge with inspiring her artistic path. “Without Refuge, I’d be a different person with different goals. It’s always been a second home, where I learned I’m in charge of my own path.”
Nevaeh Montanez is an expressive, color-driven artist whose work reflects emotion, energy, and release. She first joined Refuge Lowell as a high school scholarship student, later returning after a brief break to deepen her practice.
“Art has always been my emotional release,” Nevaeh says. “Refuge gave me space to be myself - open, supported, and free.” Her large-scale, dynamic works are filled with movement and color, emphasizing feeling over perfection. Through Refuge, she found both creative confidence and community.
Currently building her tattoo portfolio, Nevaeh credits Refuge with inspiring her artistic path. “Without Refuge, I’d be a different person with different goals. It’s always been a second home, where I learned I’m in charge of my own path.”
Zachary McIsaac
Advanced Portfolio Co-Instructor
Zachary Noelle MacIsaac is an artist from Lowell, Massachusetts whose work explores identity, transformation, and emotion through realism and symbolism. As a transgender artist, Zachary uses animals as metaphorical representations of gender euphoria, strength, and self-discovery.
“Art was always my coping mechanism,” they share. “When I began expressing myself through animals instead of human figures, I finally found joy.” Working primarily in charcoal, Zachary continues to refine their technique while using art to connect with and inspire other queer and trans creators.
Through their practice, Zachary seeks to offer visibility and inspiration, creating work that captures resilience and authenticity.
Zachary Noelle MacIsaac is an artist from Lowell, Massachusetts whose work explores identity, transformation, and emotion through realism and symbolism. As a transgender artist, Zachary uses animals as metaphorical representations of gender euphoria, strength, and self-discovery.
“Art was always my coping mechanism,” they share. “When I began expressing myself through animals instead of human figures, I finally found joy.” Working primarily in charcoal, Zachary continues to refine their technique while using art to connect with and inspire other queer and trans creators.
Through their practice, Zachary seeks to offer visibility and inspiration, creating work that captures resilience and authenticity.
Jesslie Cruz
Photo Club Moderator
OUR STUDENT TEAM
OUR BOARD
OUR BOARD
Our Board is a dedicated group of leaders who guide and support the mission of Refuge Art School. With diverse backgrounds and a shared commitment to arts education, they help ensure our programs thrive and continue to make a meaningful impact in our community. Meet the people who champion our vision and growth.
Jordan Elliot
Board Member
Henry Marte
Board Member
Jenna Guilbeault
Board Member
Mithra Thiruchangu
Board Member
Dan Jones
Board Member
Elise Hartman
Fundraising Volunteer
Kathleen Corcoran
Fundraising Volunteer
Elise Crawford-Paz Soldan
Fundraising Volunteer
Eli Paz is a multimedia visual artist, educator, and horticulture professional whose creative practice is deeply rooted in spiritual connection to nature. With a love for charcoal and ceramics, Eli uses art as a way to reflect, process, and connect—with themselves, others, and the Earth.
For the past two years, Eli has taught community art classes for both children and adults, creating inclusive spaces for self-expression and discovery. In addition to their artistic work, they are part of the team at Wellesley College Botanic Gardens, focusing on horticulture and interpretation.
After meeting members of the Refuge team, Eli immediately recognized the supportive, creative energy that defines the community. Drawn to Refuge’s mission and its commitment to access, Eli now supports the organization through fundraising efforts—helping make art more widely available to all who seek it.
Eli Paz is a multimedia visual artist, educator, and horticulture professional whose creative practice is deeply rooted in spiritual connection to nature. With a love for charcoal and ceramics, Eli uses art as a way to reflect, process, and connect—with themselves, others, and the Earth.
For the past two years, Eli has taught community art classes for both children and adults, creating inclusive spaces for self-expression and discovery. In addition to their artistic work, they are part of the team at Wellesley College Botanic Gardens, focusing on horticulture and interpretation.
After meeting members of the Refuge team, Eli immediately recognized the supportive, creative energy that defines the community. Drawn to Refuge’s mission and its commitment to access, Eli now supports the organization through fundraising efforts—helping make art more widely available to all who seek it.
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