Ivelisse Brignoni
Art Instructor
Ivelisse Brignoni is a dedicated artist and educator with a strong academic foundation from the University of Puerto Rico, where she specialized in Visual Arts with a concentration in Painting within the Faculty of Humanities. Furthering her cultural and linguistic horizons, she spent a year in Quebec, Canada, honing her proficiency in French.
Her commitment to the therapeutic potential of art led her to pursue certifications such as the Miami Therapeutic Art Life Coach Certification and training in Art for Healing, Happiness, and Stress Reduction. Additionally, she holds a Leadership certification from the AFS Cultural Organization program in Costa Rica and was granted a scholarship for the Arts and Medicine program at the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville.
In 2012, she founded Stressless Art Workshops, a platform dedicated to fostering relaxation and creative development through joyful artistic expression. Open to individuals of all ages and levels of experience, her workshops prioritize healing and personal growth through art and creativity.
With over two decades of professional experience in the arts, Ivelisse Brignoni is a versatile artist whose talents extend across various mediums. As an art teacher, painter, muralist, illustrator, designer, entrepreneur, and mentor, she brings joy and inspiration to countless individuals through her work. Her unwavering dedication, enthusiasm, and passion have led her to establish art workshops in hospitals, corporations, and community settings, using art as a powerful tool to enhance quality of life.
Her artistic contributions have been featured in promotional events for prominent corporations such as GOYA, COCA-COLA, and ABBOTT, as well as in collaborations with organizations including the Ricky Martin Foundation, Saint Jude Hospital Cancer Awareness, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the Alliance for a Drug-Free Puerto Rico, among others. Through her art and teaching, Ivelisse continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of many, spreading joy and empowerment through creativity.
Sarah Gomez
Art Instructor
Sarah Gomez-Martinez embarked on her journey in art education during her undergraduate studies, igniting her passion as an art teacher at a local studio where she guided children of various ages in drawing and painting. As she pursued her bachelor’s degree in art history and art from FIU, she furthered her expertise by obtaining an RBT license and integrating behavior modification techniques through visual arts at FoundArt Academy.
Upon completing her bachelor’s degree, Sarah transitioned to teaching 2nd-5th grade at an elementary school while continuing her dedication to volunteer work, collaborating with the Epilepsy Foundation, and conducting workshops for individuals with disabilities. In 2019, she expanded her academic horizons, earning a master’s degree in art education from the University of Florida.
Presently, Sarah serves as an art magnet teacher at Southwood Middle School Center for the Arts, nurturing the artistic talents of 6th-8th graders to hone their advanced visual art skills, with the aspiration of gaining admission to art magnet high schools and pursuing careers in art and design. Her overarching mission remains steadfast: to inspire individuals of all ages and abilities to discover love and passion for the arts through her pedagogical approach.
Duane Cross
Art Instructor
Duane Cross, a four-time National Contemporary Art award winner, and six-time finalist in Gallery Ring art competitions, brings a wealth of artistic achievement to his role as a Volunteer Art Instructor for the Art Foundation for People with Disabilities, Inc.
In retirement, Duane found himself grappling with the transition from past successes to future endeavors. Encouraged by his stepdaughter's thoughtful gift of an acrylic paint set one Christmas Eve, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery. What began as a single painting over the holidays blossomed into a newfound passion that resonated with friends and art enthusiasts alike. Over the past two years, Duane's artistic journey has been marked by numerous sales, accolades, and recognition in both national and international competitions. Through his art, he captures experiences, desires, and fantasies on canvas, inviting others to join him on this transformative journey.
For Duane, art transcends mere imagery—it's about evoking emotional responses and storytelling. With a mission to create holistic experiences, he weaves narratives based on shared experiences, inviting observers to embark on a journey of cherished memories, dreams, and aspirations. Like an author crafting a narrative, Duane paints to transport viewers to different times and places, inviting them to discover new details with each gaze. His philosophy reflects a belief in the power of art to not only be observed but experienced—a sentiment he hopes to share with the community he serves.
Maria Antonia Benitez
Creative Arts Instructor
Maria Antonia Benitez is a seasoned art instructor with over a decade of experience, having embarked on her journey in 2009. Her career began with a unique fusion of art and therapy, as she served as a Registered Behavioral Therapist at Found Art Inc. Maria seamlessly integrated the power of artistic expression into her behavioral modification plans, specifically tailored for children and youth with disabilities.
During her tenure at Found Art Inc., Maria witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of art on individuals with disabilities. Her innovative approach not only facilitated behavioral improvements but also nurtured creativity and self-expression in her students. Through her dedication and ingenuity, Maria pioneered new avenues for therapeutic intervention, harnessing the inherent therapeutic benefits of art to enhance the lives of those she served.
Since then, Maria has continued to refine her skills as an art instructor, honing her craft and expanding her repertoire of teaching techniques. Her experience at Found Art Inc. laid the foundation for her passion for inclusive art education, instilling in her a deep commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities through creative expression.
Her wealth of experience and expertise will undoubtedly enrich the lives of her students in her role as an Art Instructor at the Art Foundation for People with Disabilities, Inc., fostering an environment where artistic exploration knows no bounds. With her unwavering dedication and innovative spirit, Maria remains a beacon of inspiration in the realm of inclusive art education.
Sonia Monessati
Music Program Director
Sonia Monessati is a dedicated professional with a passion for making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Possessing a Bachelor's degree and certified as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Sonia has been actively involved in the field for many years.
Outside of her professional duties, you can often find Sonia lacing up her running shoes and hitting the pavement. With several races including a marathon under her belt—it's a passion that fuels her spirit and keeps her motivated.
From her earliest memories, music has played a central role in Sonia's life. Now, she endeavors to share the transformative power of music with others, particularly individuals with disabilities, using her knowledge to create inclusive and enriching experiences here at ARTxpwd.
Sonia is always seeking opportunities to make a positive impact in her community. Whether through her professional endeavors or personal interests, she strives to be a source of inspiration for others, demonstrating the profound joy that comes from serving those in need.
Christian Ocon
Theatre Program Director
Christian Ocón, originally from Granada, Nicaragua, boasts over 40 years of experience in the arts as an actor, director, producer, and set designer. In 2019, he was honored as the Best Actor by Puro Teatro, recognized by the Miami Escena Awards, alongside numerous other national and international accolades.
Venturing beyond Nicaragua, he joined the Zaperoco company in Costa Rica, engaging in both national and international tours. Throughout his career, he has actively collaborated with renowned theater groups such as Havanafama, Aquara Teatro, Thespis Acting Project, Factory Theater, Dramazul, and La Matadora, among others. His talents have graced stages in diverse locations including New York, Miami, Orlando, Wisconsin, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Spain.
In addition to his impressive theatrical journey, Christian Ocón serves as a volunteer theatre director at the Art Foundation for People with Disabilities, Inc. His mission is to empower individuals through the transformative power of the arts. With an unwavering passion for inclusivity and creativity, he leads theatrical productions that celebrate the diverse talents and abilities of all participants. Through his dedication and guidance, Christian fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and supported, enabling each individual to shine on stage and beyond.
