Stephanie Gwaltney

Stephanie was raised in the countryside of Suffolk surrounded by woods, animals, and art. These influences have since become lifelong passions, thereby contributing to the development of her personal and professional life.

From adolescence to adulthood, Stephanie has consistently sought opportunities to further creativity, expand spirituality, and build authentic connections. Much of this yearning is rooted in growing up with scoliosis. Having a spinal deformity provided a unique perspective regarding her physical limitations, social acceptance, and self-worth.

It was this awareness that fueled Stephanie’s passion to teach art; a subject based in the expression of one’s individuality. For 15 years, Stephanie taught art in the Suffolk Public School system empowering young people to own their truth and express themselves through creative formats.

In 2019, Stephanie began experiencing intolerable scoliosis pain, prompting her to move beyond her physical insecurities and try yoga. After her first Hatha Yoga session, Stephanie was hooked. Shortly after, she registered for a 3-month Yoga Immersion Program led by Selena Kipnis, (owner of Organic Roots, LLC Suffolk, VA). Encouraged and motivated by this wealth of knowledge, Stephanie desired to bridge her newfound love of yoga with her first love of teaching art. As a result, Stephanie became certified in Therapeutic Art Instruction (Transformation Academy), with the intent to unite emotional intelligence and cognitive behavior with visual expressions. Stephanie currently provides Therapeutic Art practices at her studio, Art-Ventures, LLC located in Suffolk.Inevitably, her excitement for learning gained momentum and led to her Usui Reiki Level I attunement, participation in Sudarshan Kriya’s SKY Breathing Method pranayama retreat, completion of Sadhguru’s Inner Engineering Comprehensive Course, and becoming 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Certified.

Stephanie feels connection with others is paramount for living a fully open existence. Teaching art and yoga provides an unbiased platform that dismantles the illusionary walls of separation, thereby establishing soul connections with limitless possibilities.