About Me

I’m Claudia Burns, a retired art teacher turned painter and mosaic artist, with a passion for capturing the beauty of Michigan, the charm of Tuscany, and the sacred through detailed, expressive works. My artistic journey has been deeply connected to my career, faith, and personal growth.

For many years, I taught art in a Catholic school while also serving in youth ministry. Eventually, I transitioned to Ann Arbor Public Schools, where I embraced the challenge of teaching a diverse student body—working with students at Pioneer High School, our comprehensive high school, as well as at-risk teens at Stone School. Teaching was both demanding and rewarding, as I helped young people discover their own creative voices. In 2013, I retired from teaching, ready to embark on a new artistic chapter.

Shortly after retirement, I faced the heartbreaking loss of my husband. In the midst of grief, I found solace in art—it became both a healing process and a means of personal expression. This journey led me to design and oversee a large-scale mosaic project at my church—a labor of love that spanned 15 months and over 1,800 hours. I managed every aspect of the project, from selecting materials to coordinating volunteers, ensuring that the vision came to life beautifully.

My artistic path took a new turn when I discovered oil painting. Just before the COVID pandemic, I found a mentor in Royal Oak who ignited my passion for the medium. When lockdown began, I used the time as an opportunity to hone my craft and seriously pursue painting in oils through virtual lessons. Since then, painting has become an essential part of my life, and I’ve continued to explore and grow as an artist.

A number of friends and family began asking how and where to purchase my work. That interest led to the creation of this shop, where I now share my art with a wider audience. Today, I create detailed paintings of Michigan’s lakes and cityscapes, scenes from Tuscany, and sacred subjects. Sometimes I paint outdoors en plein air; other times, I work from my studio. If you're interested in buying some of my work, my original pieces are framed, and prints are available unframed.

Through my art, I hope to share beauty, evoke emotion, and connect with others who appreciate the power of creativity. Whether capturing the serene shores of Michigan, the rustic landscapes of Tuscany, or moments of spiritual reflection, my work tells a story of resilience, faith, and transformation.

If my style resonates with you—if my images bring to mind familiar places or cherished memories—I invite you to browse the site, sign up for notifications, and connect with me on social media. You can view my work in person at the Chris Nordin Studios Gallery or, for now, at Ypsi Alehouse. Feel free to contact me with any questions. I’d love to hear from you!