About Our Teachers
LARA HICKS
(Cooking Instructor)
Chef Lara Hicks grew up in the Oak Hill area of Morganton and after graduation from Freedom High School continued education at Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte NC. After spending about 8 years between school and teaching culinary classes to the refugee community in east charlotte, Lara moved back home and found herself making random meals and cakes for friends of the family.
Not too long after moving home, Lara started an LLC and continued with private chef work through the present time and now holds the title for 3rd Best in Burke for caterer in 2023. She currently resides in Morganton with her sweet boyfriend, who assists with many private events and private classes. When she isn't teaching special cooking classes at the Burke Arts Council each month, Lara loves feeding her community and has a wholesome approach to teaching and creating beautiful food sourced from as many local farms/markets as possible.
Check her out on Facebook!
DIANE ENGER
(Art Instructor)
Diane started her glass journey working in stained glass, switched to fusing and have been fusing glass for over 30 years. After receiving a master’s degree in art, she taught art in the Illinois Public School System, Kindergarten through Junior College, as well as gifted classes for 26 years. Diane chose to retire with her husband to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. She now finally has the time to be a full-time artist and fused glass teacher.
Glass fusing is a process of combining different glasses and components and heating them in a kiln. By manipulating time and temperature, different depths and surfaces can be created. She says her art is about reflection and contrast; to create visual pieces that give form to her thoughts and observations, using glass and the variety of textures that can be created using it. This combination creates a flow of designs intended to portray her reflections on life – external and internal. She hopes that her work inspires you to take time to reflect…
Check her out on Facebook!