History of North Star
North Star Art Club was founded by art educator, Richelle Norton, as a space for kids to learn techniques and expand their artistic talents. Richelle's love of art was nurtured by her mom and the commitment to nurturing young artists is at the core of North Star's mission.
After a year of teaching adult and kids' classes, Liz Genrich took ownership of the studio for the 2026-2027 school year. The tradition of providing high level art instruction with a commitment to students' interests continues. North Star was founded as space to build an artistic community and that tradition continues to grow.
Liz Genrich
Liz is an educator and artist who has been teaching students from pre-k to high school to retirement age in the Twin Cities and the East Coast for over 25 years. She wants students to be comfortable exploring their creativity and strives to create a positive and collaborative community in the art classroom. Liz loves teaching art history and exposing students to art from all over the globe.
Her personal artwork primarily focuses on watercolors and acrylics. She has a BA in Art History and a MED in Art Education and experience working in public, private, and charter schools as well as art enrichment programs.
AnnaGrace Katzenmeier
AnnaGrace Katzenmeier brings a lifelong love for storytelling and creative expression to her role as an art instructor. As an English Language Arts teacher with years using art in her classroom and in her role as a yearbook advisor, she is dedicated to nurturing curiosity and art-making in every setting. After teaching 3rd-5th summer art camps at North Star, AnnaGrace will be leading Art Buddies on Sunday afternoons for 1st and 2nd graders, where she is excited to connect with young artists. Her goal in the studio is to make art accessible, joyful, and deeply engaging for all students.