At Apples for Artists, we aim to make art accessible to all.
Why apples?
Apples are a symbol of knowledge, wisdom and beauty. In mythology, they represent future happiness, good health, and a place of rest and shelter. At Apples For Artists, we’re passing our wisdom as artists on to others, aiming to create a safe place for learning, as art is inherently beautiful!
Also, they taste good (especially with cheese).
Meet Our Team
Founder
Emily V.
Hi! I’m Emily, a digital artist from New York and the founder of Apples For Artists. As a nationally recognized illustrator (Scholastic Gold 2025) who has shared artwork on social media since 2020, I’ve witnessed significant changes in the art community due to the rise of generative AI. Many beginner artists feel intimidated before they even start, while others who are already creating struggle to improve effectively. So, I created Apples For Artists, a passion project dedicated to making art more accessible––sharing clear, easy to follow tutorials and building a supportive artistic community. Creativity shapes who we are, and AFA is here to protect that.
Wherever you are in your art journey, pick up a pencil (or any medium of your choice!), and get started. Let’s grow together.
Directorial Board
Director of Curriculum
Sophia T.
Hii! I’m Sophia, a Vietnamese-American digital artist based in New Jersey. I’ve dabbled in all forms of art mediums– ranging from digital art to painting to collaging– because my love for creation has always allowed me to express myself freely. I joined Apples For Artists due to this exact reason. Due to the overwhelming rise of generative AI in the art community, many artists have become discouraged to create. This is why I believe communities like AFA are important, and I hope to help other artists experience the same joys I experience when creating!
Director of Content Creation
Elizabete D.
Hi! I’m Elizabete, an artist based in Latvia with an ever-present urge to translate my vision into form. My work often takes shape through digital environments, where fragments of my feelings become paintings that tell a story. From pen on paper to the endless canvas of digital space, I’m drawn to any medium that allows me to express myself. This same curiosity led me to take the initiative behind this platform—where I continue to shape my voice, experiences, and path as a creative within the industry.
Co-Director Of Editorial
Lily R.
Hi! I’m Lily, an artist and filmmaker from Arizona. I joined Apples For Artists because I believe that new artists should have a chance to build their skills and creativity in an accessible, easy way. With the rise of generative AI, it’s important to teach people that art is something that anyone can learn. I’ve always loved art in all forms, and I particularly enjoy painting. Along with this, I love to write and make videos, and I look forward to using all of my passions to help people at Apples For Artists!
Co-Director Of Editorial
Wyn P.
Hi, I'm Wyn! I'm a self-taught artist based in the United Kingdom that explores a variety of art styles and techniques. My work is a reflection of both my interests and my emotions, everything I create speaking for me; I've always believed the most important part of creating is finding yourself in the process. I'm excited to support those in AFA flourish in discovering their own creative voice, while proving that the joy of human creation is something AI can never replicate.
Director of Outreach
Kimly N.
I’m Kimly, a Vietnamese-American self-taught artist from Massachusetts who’s been sharing my work on Instagram since 2020. Ever since I could hold a crayon, I’ve been doing art—comic books, pretend magazines, and more. Inspired by SamDoesArts, I’m now working on my own art style and love turning my favorite things (Valorant, volleyball, and my latest show obsessions!) into stories through art. I believe artistic creation is an essential part of human expression and cultural development. Through teaching beginners foundational skills, I hope to encourage others to create their own work and appreciate the value of human-made art.
References
- Baltimore, M. (2025). Environmental Considerations for Using AI - The Elm. Umaryland.edu. https://elm.umaryland.edu/elm-stories/2025/Environmental-Considerations-for-Using-AI.php
- EDDY. (2025, March 11). The Neuroscience of Creativity: Exploring How Art Affects Mental Health And Cognitive Function | RMCAD. RMCAD. https://www.rmcad.edu/blog/the-neuroscience-of-creativity-exploring-how-art-affects-mental-health-and-cognitive-function/
- Kaimal, G., Ayaz, H., Herres, J., Dieterich-Hartwell, R., Makwana, B., Kaiser, D. H., & Nasser, J. A. (2017). Functional near-infrared spectroscopy assessment of reward perception based on visual self-expression: Coloring, doodling, and free drawing. The Arts in Psychotherapy, 55, 85–92. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aip.2017.05.004
- Kaufman, J. (2018). Creativity as a Stepping Stone toward a Brighter Future. Journal of Intelligence, 6(2), 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence6020021
- Pinheiro Privette, A. (2024, October 11). AI’s Challenging Waters. Illinois.edu. https://cee.illinois.edu/news/AIs-Challenging-Waters
- Xiao, T., Nerini, F. F., Matthews, H. D., Tavoni, M., & You, F. (2025). Environmental impact and net-zero pathways for sustainable artificial intelligence servers in the USA. Nature Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-025-01681-y
- Zhang, Y. (2025). Impact of arts activities on psychological well-being: Emotional intelligence as mediator and perceived stress as moderator. Acta Psychologica, 254, 104865. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.104865
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