Smartypants Art Studio
tel: (209) 604-5780
about the studio
The original Smartypants started back in 2010 in a tiny home studio when its founder, Dawn Bankson, had an idea of creating a unique place where children could learn about the visual arts. With her background in Early Childhood Education and love for the arts, she was able to create lessons that not only taught art but encouraged the social, intellectual, and emotional growth of her students.
In January of 2019, Dawn decided to move the studio to Downtown Merced. The new studio was a brightly lit and safe space where children learn to explore art, create, and express themselves. Each child is given the opportunity to take part in socialization through fun activities where they make friends and lasting memories.
In March of 2020, with the onset of the Covid 19 virus, Dawn made the difficult decision to close the physical studio in Downtown Merced. It is with great excitement that we announce the return of Smartypants Art Classes for children Ages 5-15. The classes will be limited to 6 children per class to give each child the maximum one on one time with Dawn. They will be held in Dawn's home art studio that is conveniently located in central Merced.
about the owner and instructor
Dawn Bankson has been teaching art for over 20 years. She has taught in private and public schools and has been running her own Children's Art studio for 12 years.
Dawn is passionate about the arts and being able to share that with kids of all ages.
As well as running the studio, Dawn is a mother to 2 adult children. In her spare time Dawn loves to travel with her husband, spend time in her garden, and loves cooking for family and friends.
