Diane Capasso

Diane Capasso is a certified Montessori director and has been involved in Montessori education since 1984.  In 1997, Little Strokes of Genius was born of her love of teaching and her passion for art. 

From the start, Little Strokes of Genius was warmly received by local Montessori schools, which led to the successful extension of her unique program to public and private schools, park districts, summer camps, and children’s workshops throughout the area. 

Diane combines a contagious enthusiasm with a creative teaching style that has proven to be highly appealing to students, parents, and teachers.   

After continual encouragement from a number of trusted teachers and colleagues, in 2008 she expanding Little Strokes of Genius beyond her weekly art classes by offering teacher training workshops, on-site art field trips, summer camps, holiday workshops,  group installation projects, and Instructional DVD series. 

In March 2020 we enthusiastically adapted to our changing environment by offering our unique classes in a virtual format.

Diane on her formative years…

I grew up surrounded by successful artists in both my immediate and extended families.  I thought it common to know of the works of Joan Miro and Henri Matisse, but as I entered grade school I realized this wasn’t so.  As an adult, I am saddened to see the continual cuts in school funding for the arts.  I hope to do my part in keeping the arts alive with Little Strokes of Genius art program.  My mission is to spark an interest and lifelong passion for art in every child.

Among my most vivid childhood memories are those of brilliantly colored oil paint tubes on our kitchen counters and partially finished canvases in our den.  I was able to experiment on my Aunt’s pottery wheel, and watch her paintings come to life. One of my favorite hide-and-seek spots was in the art studio of my best friend’s father.  Another unforgettable memory was the day I met Salvador Dali.

Many of the most memorable moments in my life have been associated with art.  Art was as much a part of my childhood as hopscotch and storybooks.

I believe the exposure to art at an early age can take away any possible fear or trepidation and should be one of life’s comforts and joys.   Art is a part of every day, from something as simple as choosing your own outfit to helping decorate a room or dabbling in watercolors at the end of the day.  With Art, children can freely express themselves enhancing self-confidence and creativity.                                                                                                

In the past 20 years over 2500 students in more than 30 schools have enjoyed Little Strokes of Genius art program.  My deep passion and genuine love of the arts grows deeper through each of your children 's created art pieces.
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