Get to know us

Welcome to ART Nerd, a space where creativity meets purpose, a blog built for artists, dreamers, makers, and lifelong learners.

At ART Nerd, we believe that art is more than paint on canvas, it’s a journey of rediscovery, healing, and self-expression. Whether you’re just getting started, returning to art after a long pause, or looking to sharpen your skills, you’re in the right place.

This blog was born from a deep well of experience, not only in painting and design, but also in education, leadership, and mentoring. With decades spent teaching and inspiring others, I’ve developed a passion for guiding creatives on their own paths blending practical knowledge with soulful encouragement.

Through thoughtful articles, hands-on tutorials, artist spotlights, creative challenges, and resource recommendations, ART Nerd is here to support your artistic growth from the ground up.

Here’s what you’ll find here:

🎨 Techniques and tools for all mediums
🧠 Insights on color, composition, and creativity
📚 Tips on building a sustainable art practice
💼 Marketing, branding, and mindset for working artists
👩‍🎓 Resources from decades of education and professional training
❤️ Encouragement to keep showing up, even when life gets messy

This is more than a blog. It’s a community for those who are passionate about art, curious about the process, and ready to embrace their creative identity at any stage of life.

Thank you for being here. Let’s keep learning, painting, and dreaming together.

About Me

Welcome! I'm a Louisiana-based visual artist and arts advocate with a lifelong passion for creativity, education, and community engagement. My journey began with two formative years as an art major at Nicholls State University and has since evolved into a dynamic and rewarding artistic career grounded in both practice and leadership.

Currently located in Houma, Louisiana, I hold an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and serve as the Recording Secretary and Scholarship Chairman of the Terrebonne Fine Arts Guild, where I also offer free children’s art classesat our gallery. I’m a proud member of both the Terrebonne Fine Arts Guild and the Art Guild of Louisiana, actively exhibiting and contributing to the local and regional arts scene.

Exhibitions & Recognition

My work has been juried into prestigious shows and venues, including:

• The Imperial Calcasieu Museum Gift Shop in Lafayette

• The Art Guild of Louisiana’s National River Road Show (70th Jubilee)

• Explore Louisiana’s Houma Center – Explore Houma Tourist Center

• Baton Rouge River Road National Juried Art Show (2025)

Recent awards include:

• Artist of the Year – Terrebonne Fine Arts Guild (2024)

• Honorable Mention – Art Guild of Louisiana's Fall Show at Independence Theatre

• People’s Choice Awards – Terrebonne Fine Arts Guild & Art Guild of Louisiana Winter Shows

Education & Mentorship

Over the years, I’ve studied with and been mentored by some of today’s leading contemporary artists:

• Gale LeCompte – Oil painting, color theory, composition

• Larry Downs – Drawing and design

• Jan Wilken – Acrylic texture and movement

• Tim Packer – Mastering the Business of Being an Artist

• Nicholas Wilton – Art2Life Program

• Milan Art Institute – Professional training and mentorship

• Matt Tommey – Artist Cashflow Bootcamp

• Sergio Gomez – Art Nxt Level Pro Member

I continuously invest in professional growth through programs like Art Storefronts (marketing and tech for artists), and I've supported other artists in developing their online presence through website creation and branding.

Advocacy & Writing

I’m also a grant writer for the Explore Louisiana initiative, helping expand access to art and culture in our region. I recently published "Basics of Fine Art," a practical guide designed to support both new and seasoned artists on their creative journey.

Whether I’m behind the canvas or leading community initiatives, my goal remains the same: to inspire, uplift, and create meaningful connections through the power of art. Thank you for being here.

Stay inspired,
Tonia Kay
Founder, ART Nerd
[🎓 M.Ed. in Educational Leadership | Artist | Educator | Lifelong Learner]