Elka is a New York-based Art Instructor. Originally from Brazil, Elka is a professional visual artist and educator with over 23 years of teaching experience. She holds a BFA from UFMG in Brazil, an MFA from Hunter College, and a postgraduate degree in Art Education from Pratt Institute. She has taught students from elementary through college level in New York, Virginia, and Brazil. As a practicing artist, Elka specializes in mixed media, including watercolor, drawing, photography, printmaking, colored pencil, and acrylic, and has exhibited her work internationally, including at the Bronx Museum. Her lessons are personalized to each student’s goals—whether developing artistic skills, exploring a new medium, preparing a college portfolio, or seeking thoughtful critique. Elka combines strong technical instruction with experimentation, helping students build confidence, develop their individual artistic voice, and reach their creative potential.