About Our Teachers

Kirsten Rommes: Owner

Hello Fellow Artists!

My name is Kirsten, and I founded The Burrow to provide a space where children in our community can play, explore, and create!

Art and education have long been my passions. I graduated from the University of San Diego with a BA in Visual Art. After school I worked for years as a teacher at an Arts Preschool in Seattle and I discovered my passion for teaching. I went on to study Elementary Education at Seattle Pacific University before settling down and having children of my own. Making art with my two girls, and seeing their excitement to create has been one of my biggest joys.

It is my goal that The Burrow will bring creativity, inspiration and excitement to your kiddos too!

Renee DeBaun: Teacher

Hello! My name is Renee and I am always thrilled to spend time at the Burrow sharing in the joy and imagination of art with our students! I am a local artist in the Valley. I was born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest of Oregon! I am blessed to have been raised in a very creative home with a Mom and Grandmothers that had deep talent in everything from oil painting, to quilting and sewing and intricate doily making! I definitely caught that “bug” for all things beautiful and expressive.

I have a B.A. in Art and Psychology from Western Oregon University where I emphasized in Art History. My favorite medium to work in is acrylics, watercolor and digital art.

My husband Peter and I have a deep love for travel and seeking out all things beautiful! We are the proud Grandparents to three grandsons and three adult kids!

I cant wait to see you in the studio and share in all things creative!

Hayley Vanbragt: Teacher

Hey everybody! 

I'm Hayley and I can't wait to share my love of creating art with your kids!  My fondest memories as a child were spent creating art, from making and selling hemp necklaces at swim meets, to eagerly awaiting occasions where I got to give my mom beaded barrettes I had worked tirelessly to create.  I would love to help engender a similar joy for creation in my classes!

I have a Masters in Studio Art and Psychology from Dartmouth College and I ran my own hand-crafted jewelry company based out of San Francisco.  I continue to experiment with creating new forms of art with my kids and I never want to stop nurturing my artistic spirit and theirs!

Ainsley Nelson: Teacher

Hello! I am Ainsley, a new artist in town from Whidbey Island, Washington. I’m so excited to be here and connect with the community, creators, makers, and artists!

I recently graduated from the University of Puget Sound where I got my B.A. in Studio Art, with an emphasis in painting as well as a minor in Art History. Creativity is a guiding force in my life, and I enjoy artful spaces like The Burrow where we can share the innovations of our imagination. I love acrylic painting, ceramics, and ink drawing, but most of all I enjoy creating with my own two hands, whatever that may look like.

Art has been at the core of some of my fondest memories stretching back to my own childhood. The opportunity to continue to share my love for creating, and help inspire young minds to explore and express their imagination is beyond exciting. I am happy to join The Burrow and journey alongside each of you to explore whatever beautiful direction your imagination may take you.

I can’t wait to see you all in the studio and start making! :)

Kalie Mauldin: Manager

Hi everyone! I'm Kalie, a local artist and mom to two little girls. I believe in the importance of creativity and cultivating a love for the arts and creative self-expression at a young age. I have a passion for all things artistic, and providing an encouraging space for everyone to discover more of who they are through art.

I have a B.A. in Art from Westmont College, and have had many experiences leading art classes for children as well as adults. My favorite mediums to work in are watercolor and photography, and I love using innovative materials to foster creativity and push beyond our comfort zones. I desire my classes to be a place where children can explore various art mediums, and can create artwork they are proud to call their own. I look forward to creating with you and your littles!