My name is Lisha Schlaich, Founder of Chez Lisha Creative Arts™.

 

I created Mini Masters™, a studio arts curriculum that introduces art history through hands-on creative practice—guiding participants to explore influential artists, movements, and techniques while developing their own artistic voices.

 

I developed the concept when I taught classes for Rockville Centre School District's Academic Enrichment Program.  I found that the children responded to the connection between the artist or "master" and his/her techniques, when they applied the style or medium in their own art. They also enjoyed learning about different artists, their cultures, history and influences.  Further, they became more inquisitive and explored a variety of mediums.

 

Now, my studio offerings have expanded to include classes for children, adults and seniors.  I also host in home creative experiences and collaborate with local businesses for pop up art events.

 

Prior to founding Chez Lisha, I spent nearly two decades at Ralph Lauren, where I served as Vice President of Home Design, leading product development. Ralph's ability to inspire, and convey clear lifestyle messages through design, styling and storytelling, profoundly impacted me. My career at Ralph Lauren was an unparalleled education. I was exposed to visionary artisans and designers and had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Europe where I attended trade shows and worked with partner factories.

 

I later accepted the position of Senior Vice President of Design at Croscill-Glenoit-Excell.  During my tenure, I broadened my range and led creative for

mass-market retail chains. I then founded Chez Lisha™, an interior design and consulting firm serving residential and commercial clients and began teaching Community Education in Rockville Centre.

 

My work also extends into cultural institutions including the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum and the John W. Engeman Theater, where I have directed events, partnerships, sales, and revenue-generating initiatives.

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When not teaching, creating, traveling or designing,

I enjoy cooking, entertaining, reading and all things French. My great grandmother emigrated from Paris to New Orleans, where my mother was born and raised.

I can often be found dining out locally, swimming and sunbathing at Asharoken or Hobart's Beach or walking the Kings Park Bluffs or Makamah trail, sharing the company of my husband Fred, and our adult children, Jack, Fred and Benjamin and our mini dachshund, Peggy.