Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline

Leah A. Finley

Self-Employed
Berea
1
Certification
6
years of professional experience

Innovative Mural Artist with expertise in conceptualizing and executing large-scale custom murals. Demonstrated leadership in managing projects to ensure timely and budget-conscious delivery. Experience as a Painting Instructor, fostering creativity in students and enhancing their artistic skills. Recognized for a client-focused approach and strong organizational abilities.

Work History

Art Teacher

9 Months
Foluke Cultural Arts | 09.2025 - 06.2026
  • Developed culturally rich art lessons aligned with student skill levels and learning objectives.
  • Instructed learners in drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed-media techniques.
  • Managed classroom materials, studio setup, and safe use of art supplies.
  • Assessed student progress and adjusted instruction to strengthen artistic growth.
  • Managed art room supplies, equipment and resources to maintain consistent supply for projects.
  • Enhanced student creativity by incorporating various art mediums and techniques into lessons.

Painting Instructor

1 Year 6 Months
Painting with a Twist | 08.2023 - 02.2025
  • Led painting classes for groups of up to 25, facilitating step-by-step guidance to help students recreate famous artworks.
  • Cultivated a fun and supportive environment, enhancing student confidence and creativity in artistic expression.
  • Coordinated class preparations by setting up studio and organizing materials to deliver exceptional customer experiences.
  • Promoted a positive, community-driven atmosphere, which led to high customer retention and repeat business.

Arts & Crafts Director

3 Months
Camp Jorn YMCA | 05.2025 - 08.2025
  • Planned weekly arts and crafts curriculum aligned with camp themes and age-specific activity needs.
  • Supervised craft area operations, maintaining organized supplies and safe creative workspace.
  • Selected seasonal materials, balancing budget control with variety, durability, and camper interest.
  • Trained counselors on project setup, cleanup procedures, and effective camper engagement techniques.

Brand Operations Manager

2 Years
Victoria's Secret | 08.2021 - 08.2023
  • Led shipment and floorset process, aligning operations with corporate guidelines to enhance overall store presentation.
  • Supervised staff during floorset changes, ensuring efficient execution and timely completion.
  • Supervised staff during floorset changes, driving timely execution and maintaining high standards of visual merchandising.
  • Organized stockroom and inventory processes, streamlining operations and improving accessibility for team members.

Mural Artist

2 Years 7 Months
Self-Employed | 03.2024 - Current
  • Executed diverse public and private mural projects across Northeast Ohio, enhancing community spaces at Joe's Barber Shop, Vape District (three locations), and Foster's Tavern of Hinckley.
  • Designed and painted custom murals that align with client visions and brand identities, ensuring each project was unique and well-executed.
  • Managed all aspects of the business, from client acquisition and project planning to budgeting and execution.
  • Established strong client relationships by consistently delivering high-quality murals on time and within budget, resulting in a loyal client base.
  • Owner & Lead Artist

Supervisor

7 Months
The Painted Penguin | 08.2020 - 03.2021
  • Supervised store operations, facilitating seamless activities and creating an inviting environment for customers.
  • Assisted guests in selecting ceramic pieces, ensuring inventory was organized for easy access and presentation.
  • Assisted guests in selecting ceramic pieces from store shelves, ensuring inventory was orderly and well-maintained.
  • Maintained cleanliness of store environment and prepared ceramic items for next guests, ensuring readiness for upcoming sessions.

Education

Associate of Arts - Visual Communication and Design (Illustration)

Tri-C (Cuyahoga Community College) | Cleveland | 09-2026

Enrolled

High School Diploma

Berea-Midpark High School | Berea | 05-2021
Graduated

Skills

Artistic Design
Art Instruction
Leadership management
Curriculum development
Leadership & Team Management
Customer Service
Material Organization

Certification

CPR certified

Timeline

Art Teacher

Foluke Cultural Arts
09.2025 - 06.2026Read More

Arts & Crafts Director

Camp Jorn YMCA
05.2025 - 08.2025Read More

Mural Artist

Self-Employed
03.2024 - CurrentRead More

Painting Instructor

Painting with a Twist
08.2023 - 02.2025Read More

Brand Operations Manager

Victoria's Secret
08.2021 - 08.2023Read More

Supervisor

The Painted Penguin
08.2020 - 03.2021Read More

Berea-Midpark High School

High School Diploma
Read More

Tri-C (Cuyahoga Community College)

Associate of Arts from Visual Communication and Design (Illustration)
Read More
Leah A. Finley