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Inspiring Others Through Art

by Maryann Gogniat Eidemiller

Gabi Nastuck helps people with different abilities find their voice through art.

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Big Dreams

Born with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), Gabi had multiple childhood surgeries. That didn’t stop her from pursuing a career in art. She’s putting art within reach of people of all ages and abilities at Miss Gabi’s Art Is Good Studio, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

Step by Step

Special-needs students follow Gabi’s on-screen instructions. “Art brings out a new side of their personality. Even if they can’t communicate, their voices are heard,” she says. “Teaching is very rewarding.”

Clelian Heights, a school for children and adults with developmental disabilities in Greensburg, Pennsylvania

Discovering Their Talent

During the pandemic, Gabi offered a virtual class at Clelian Heights, a school for children and adults with developmental disabilities in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. “Gabi empowers people,” pro-gram director Ali-cia Harter says.

Driven

Gabi has a degree in fine arts with a focus on graphic design. Her work has been exhibited at local art shows. She left a gallery director position in 2017 to open her studio and teach art.

The Joy of Art

Gabi gives students projects with fun themes, such as holidays, flowers and animals. “If I can make my students smile for one hour, if I can make them laugh, then I have done my job for the day,” she says.

Back at It

While still offering virtual instruction, Gabi reopened her studio last summer for in-person private and group classes, summer camp and special events. A series of free art lessons is posted on missgabisartstudio.com.

Sharing Her Passion

Gabi says goodbye to her dogs, Art and Antonio (far left), as she leaves for her studio. “God has guided me on my path, allowing art to enrich my life. I want to give others a chance to feel its power too,” she says.