Meet Beth Smith | Art Instructor & Owner of Cornerstone Academy of Art and Design

We had the good fortune of connecting with Beth Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Beth, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I wanted to offer fine art education along with a mentorship for creative and artistic kids as well as adults who have always had a love of art but had to set it aside to do life.
There are many school aged children who love to draw and paint. It is all they do, they have NO interest in sports or other extra curricular activities. Many parents seek out where to place their children in order to nurture this passion. Creative kids are also unique and walk to their own beat, usually set apart and sometimes not accepted in other peer groups. I wanted to offer a place in which to learn, practice their craft and have a common place in which to socialize with other like minded creative peers in a safe environment in which they can express themselves freely.

What should our readers know about your business?
Our school’s name is derived from the personal spiritual journey of our founder Beth Smith with God as her cornerstone, Cornerstone Academy brings the elucidation of a firm foundation in Fine Arts. Because Cornerstone Academy supplies the education of the foundation of principles, we identify our students as the walls that emanate out of the corner, building the structural support to provide an ensemble of fine art variations to the future world. We are committed to the belief that the mastery of technique empowers creative expression. To provide our community with the insights of how fine arts can impact the appeal of society, our school centers on an innovative directed arts curriculum.

Cornerstone Academy of Art and Design was founded by Beth Smith, a classical trained and internationally recognized professional artist, in 2023. Beth, as many other artists, grew up with the ability to express her personal state through drawing and painting. Before beginning her journey as a professional artist, Beth worked for the Marion County Sheriffs Department in Ocala, Florida as a criminal composite sketch artist. During her time at the Sheriffs department, she worked with the FBI on the investigation and capture of the first female serial killer where she was given the task of providing the surrounding community with a sketched portrait of the woman. Because of her sketch being broadcasted on numerous news outlets, Aileen Wuornos was taken into custody. As Beth provided the Ocala community with important information, she wishes to do the same to the Central Georgia community while running one of the few recognized art and design academies in the area.

In 5-10 years we see our academy growing immensely into a space that educates the future generations in areas like fine art, photography, fashion, etc. at a more affordable cost. Post completion of the courses, we hope to provide our students with employment in their field of study.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Macon has alot to offer. Museums, Historical Indian Mounds, Hiking, Preforming Arts, Live Music, and a wide range of Restaurant selections.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost my family. My husband and my four adult children who have always encouraged and believed in me as an Artist, Teacher and Entrepreneur.
Secondly the Art Community here in Middle Georgia

Website: https://www.caad.studio

Instagram: cornerstoneaad

Image Credits
Beth Smith