Gesso Arts was founded by Meryl Manfre Clark with the intention of bringing process based arts education to the Smyrna community and surrounding area. 

Who We Are

Meryl holds a BFA in Studio Art from Auburn University and has managed community arts centers for over 15 years. She has led and facilitated classes, camps, workshops, exhibits, parties and special events. Her love for the creative process has been a guiding force over the years and she is thrilled to be back in the classroom with young artists!

Meryl has two daughters, Elia (5 years) and Olive (2 years), who attend St. Benedict’s. Meryl began offering art clubs in Spring 2024 and camps Summer 2024. She plans to continue to expand programming at STBS and other locations!

Ms. Virginia is our amazing assistant teacher. She is a former educator and is Nana to Elia and Olive. As one of our students described her “Ms. Virginia is as sweet as pie”!