People
Debbie Kizer, Executive Director
debbie@imaginart.net
I am the founder and Executive Director of Imagine Art. I was born and raised in Houston and later moved to Austin after graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science in 1989 from Sam Houston State University. After working 3 years in a rehabilitation setting I developed a career in the field of supported employment ~ creating tailored jobs for persons with disabilities. In 1996, I was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder and I recognized decades of addiction to both alcohol and drugs. As a result, I entered into the AA community and my sobriety date is September 1, 1997. I found myself unemployed, ready for a new beginning. Imagine Art developed in this period as I explored my own talents, skills and desire to serve. I became a Christian in 1998 when I experienced the love, power and saving grace of Jesus Christ. My life changed at this point ~ I will never be the same. I realized what God had done in my life and what He wanted to do through my life ~ through Imagine Art.
Fourteen years later I continue on a journey of restoration. I am married to Brad and have two awesome children, Jesse (20) and Julie (6). I am an artist, exploring painting and mixed media. I enjoy creating whimsical little treasures, games, story cards and paper things.
Tish Young, CPA
tish.young@me.com
I am the accountant for Imagine Art. As a member of the team it has been my pleasure to participate in the great mission of Imagine Art and to see all of the people that it is affecting on a daily basis. I was raised in Nashville, Tennessee and went to Bucknell University in Pennsylvania where I received a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration in 1998. After graduation – as they say, “I wasn’t born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could!” I married a Texan and have lived in Dallas, Houston and now Austin over the last 14 years. We have two beautiful daughters and it is our honor to teach them about the love of Jesus and how He can make a difference in their lives each day.
Alison Talbert, Program Director
alison@imagineart.net
As Program Director of Imagine Art, I oversee daily activities, coordinate volunteers, oversee the Art In and Out Program, keep up with billing, web updates and marketing materials. I’m originally from California but grew up in Pennsylvania and Texas and have lived in Austin for the past 5 years with my husband Alan. I have a B.S. in Business Administration with a Marketing concentration as well as a B.A. in Fine Art from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. My professional background is in fine art, advertising, product development, and marketing. I enjoy cooking, reading, and hiking with my husband and our dog. I am so blessed to be a part of the vibrant and talented community at Imagine Art where I see God at work every day.
Tony Hyden, Art Director
tony@imagineart.net
As an Art Director I work in the fine art studio at Imagine Art, helping artists reach their goals while providing friendship and encouragement. I moved to Austin for my first job in 1999 and have been here ever since. I initially became involved with Imagine Art through the Austin House of Prayer which shares the facility and later became a volunteer. I have an Associates in Computer Animation from the Art Institute of Dallas and my professional background is in educational animation and design for children, the military, and the hospitality industry. I enjoy working with my hands and working directly with people. In my free time I enjoy walking, fishing, good food and friends. Imagine Art has given me an opportunity to be a part of building community through prayer and friendship.
Board of Directors
Curt Voelkel, Board Member
c_voelkel@hotmail.com
Janice Sharp, Secretary
jsharp@austin.rr.com
Mike Meleski, Treasurer
mikemeleski@yahoo.com
Robert Adams, Board Member
Roberthe3rd@yahoo.com