We've carefully selected knowledgeable and talented instructors to teach all of the art programs at the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton. They will share their expertise and specialized knowledge to help you learn new artistic techniques in a fun and friendly environment.
Angela Lipscombe
Angela is an award-winning visual artist and honours graduate in Graphic Design from George Brown College. A full-time artist and instructor for the last 20 years, Angela specializes in acrylics, oils, watercolours and oil pastels. She has been commissioned as a muralist for schools, published and exhibited in various galleries throughout Ontario and her art has been purchased for private and corporate collections worldwide. She recently trained under the Zentangle inventors Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts and is proud to add Certified Zentangle Teacher to her list of artistic credentials. She's been an instructor at the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton team since the facility opened in 2011.
Aparna Rangnekar
Aparna holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, India. Following her undergraduate work where she specialized in mural painting, Aparna pursued postgraduate studies in ceramics and pottery. She is also engaged with various art groups in the community and serves on the board of Arts Milton. Aparna has facilitated several community art projects in the Greater Toronto Area. Three of her murals, created with the Milton community during Culture Days, are on display in the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton. Aparna joined the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton team in 2014.
Deedee Maugeri
Deedee is an experienced professional working with preschoolers for over 25 years. She is passionate about teaching the next generation through art and creativity. You will find Deedee always looking for a new way to connect with her students using different mediums and materials. Deedee joined the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton team in 2023.
Gislaine Losier
Gislaine is an illustrator and animator who holds a Bachelor's degree in Animation from Sheridan College. Alongside her training in animation, she has developed a personal illustration practice specializing in fantasy art, original characters, creatures and imagined worlds, often inspired by tabletop role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons. She brings a strong foundation in drawing, character design and hands-on making to her classes, guiding young artists as they design, build and bring their own ideas to life. Gislaine is passionate about fostering creativity and helping each student discover their own artistic voice in a fun and welcoming environment.
Rachel Harris
Rachel is beyond thrilled to be returning for her fourth summer as a Drama Instructor with the Town of Milton. Rachel is an actor, vocal teacher, drama teacher, and background extra, and has been acting for over 15 years. She has received her Advanced Diploma in Music Theatre: Performance from St. Lawrence College, and her Bachelor (Hons.) in Performing Arts: Acting from the Atlantic Technological University in Sligo, Ireland. She can't wait to have another amazing summer!
Svetlana Ignatov
S. Ignatov studied at Sheridan College, Bachelor of Arts (Animation) degree, and trained as a fine artist for 4 years. She went on to illustrative, and graphic design projects. Currently Svetlana Ignatov paints in oil paints and watercolours - her work has been exhibited in various galleries across Canada. With 15 years of experience teaching art, she is now an art instructor at the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton. Svetlana is keen to help her students explore their creativity and learn new skills.
Zunaira Mufti
Zunaira holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Indus Valley School of Arts and Architecture and a certificate in Design from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). She possesses a wide range of experience as an architectural designer and an artist. Her expertise includes drawing, painting, calligraphy, resin art and interior design. Zunaira is passionate about teaching art and design courses and has been teaching for several years, including when the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton opened in 2011. She rejoined the teaching team in 2020 and is excited to share her knowledge with new students.
