About Sheila
A little bit about
Sheila O'Brien MA (Art Education), BEd (Visual Arts/English), BA (Major: English Literature, Minor: Visual Arts)
Artist, Educator, and Advocate for Creative Growth
Sheila O’Brien is a passionate artist and dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience inspiring students of all ages to embrace their creativity. A highly skilled painter and illustrator, she specializes in oil, acrylic, drawing, and mixed media, bringing a vibrant and expressive energy to her work. Her art has been showcased in numerous exhibitions, including the Community Art Walk in Downtown Pembroke and Creative Collisions Showcase at Algonquin College.
Holding a Master’s in Art Education from Concordia University, Sheila has an extensive background in both studio practice and arts-based research. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in inclusivity, mentorship, and student-centered learning. As a seasoned instructor, she has taught at the secondary and post-secondary levels, helping to shape the educational journeys of countless students in Canada and internationally. Her ability to connect with learners—whether children, teens, or adults—stems from a deep understanding of diverse learning styles, neurodiversity, and the transformative power of creative expression.
Sheila is also the founder of Paint with Sheila, where she leads engaging group workshops, paint nights, and art events designed to make artistic exploration accessible to everyone. Sheila’s expertise in curriculum development, instructional design, and educational technology allows her to create dynamic, hands-on experiences that empower learners to build confidence in their abilities.
As a strong advocate for equity and inclusivity in the arts, Sheila has led workshops on inclusive language, accessibility in education, and mental health awareness. She has been recognized for her dedication to fostering welcoming learning spaces, earning a nomination for the Faculty Recognition Award from Algonquin College’s Student Association.
Sheila O’Brien’s mission is to nurture artistic potential in all individuals, making the world of art an inspiring and enriching place for everyone. Whether through teaching, creating, or mentoring, she brings warmth, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to making art education both meaningful and transformative.
The greatest community building exercise is coming together to paint.
Sheila O'brien
Why paint with Sheila?
- Take a break from the rat race and focus on your mental health
- Connect with friends: new and old, during a community-centred event
- Re-invigorate your professional team with this team builder
- Book PWS for your holiday party, and show off your art savvy
- Save yourself the hassle, and arrange a PWS event for kid’s birthdays
What does Paint with Sheila include?
- The use of prime acrylic paint and paint brushes
- A paint palette to use during the event
- A high quality stretched canvas that is yours to keep
- Two hours of solid teaching and entertainment with a curated P.W.S. playlist
- All set up and clean up taken care of (you won’t lift a finger except to paint)
- Peace of mind
Pricing
Are you considering holding a Paint with Sheila Event of your own? PWS is great for professional team building activities, parties, or just to have some fun with friends on a Friday night. Sheila will come to you!
Are you hoping to host an entertaining event for your children and their friends? Why not consider Paint With Sheila? Sheila will run an engaging paint party in the comfort of your own home!
Lessons
Were you hoping for personalized guided art lessons? Paint With Sheila has got you covered! Book your personal art lesson in Drawing, Acrylic or Oil painting for only $40/hour. In person or virtual. Email paintwithsheila@gmail.com