Meet The staff

Instructors

We love getting to know you in class, so now it's time for us to properly introduce ourselves! Here is a quick look at the talented teachers that make The Palette such a fun place learn a new skill.

Instructor

Jamie Pietrack

Jamie holds a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts, with an emphasis in Education from Western State College. She was an art teacher for eight years before deciding to leave education to become a stay-at-home mom for her three girls. "Working at The Palette has allowed me to tap back into a part of me that has been put aside for many years. I love helping and watching our patrons find their inner artist!"

bartender

Michelle Pewters

Michelle began in reception and bartending in the fall of 2021. "It's a great place to work because this job allows me to be creative and meet so many friendly people. I love watching people of all skill levels push themselves outside of their comfort zone and embrace their artistic side!"

Bartender

Ashley Rossman

Ashley began working at The Palette in 2022 as a receptionist and bartender. She has a degree in Political Science from Colorado Mesa University.

Owner

Claire Meil

Claire has a degree in Graphic Design from Colorado Mesa University and opened The Palette in 2012. "It was my dream to create a place where friends can get together for a creative - and wine filled - night out! Ten years later we are working hard to constantly bring you new projects. It's such a joy to offer a unique outlet for people of all skill levels to step outside of their comfort zone and Uncork Your Inner Artist!"

Instructor

Jess Hren

Jess graduated from CMU with a degree in K-12 Art Education. She worked as a middle school art teacher before deciding her calling, for the time being, was to stay home and raise her three precious boys. She spends her days homeschooling and trying to keep up with her three busy boys. "I'm so grateful to be at The Palette, where I am still a part of a learning environment, and surrounded by people who are drawn in by the joy of painting!"

Instructor

Sarah Decker

Sarah graduated from CMU, way back when it was still Mesa State, with a bachelors degree in fine art. While still dabbling often in the creative world, she spent the last 20 years mostly raising and educating her four children. She's super excited to get to be a part of the team at the Palette, and really enjoys seeing people use their own creative license to construct beautiful paintings!”