There’s something new blooming at the Mendenhall Mall. Bloom Children’s Art Studio has officially welcomed a new owner, and we’re excited to introduce her to the community: Natasha Chester.
Natasha recently retired after 30 years of teaching in Juneau’s schools, but she wasn’t ready to step away from working with kids. With degrees in both early childhood and elementary education, and experience with children from infancy through 8th grade, she’s bringing a wealth of knowledge and a genuine love for creativity to the studio.
What drew her to Bloom? The joy.
“Seeing their faces light up when they create something they’re proud of is what drives me,” Natasha shared. She hopes Bloom continues to be a space where families can slow down, enjoy the moment, and not worry about the mess that comes with creativity. “I want parents to be able to relax and just be present.”
Under Natasha’s leadership, Bloom will continue offering the hands-on art experiences families love, with some new additions already taking shape. December will feature special pop-up sessions focused on Christmas keepsakes and creative mementos for kids of all ages. She’s also adding a small retail section with art supplies for families to take home and keep the creativity flowing.
Bloom is expanding its weekly programming as well, now offering a Friday Homeschool Group in the mornings and a Tween Art Group on Friday afternoons. Both groups give kids a welcoming place to explore, create, and connect.
Natasha says she’s grateful to be part of the mall community.
“I really appreciate being in the mall and building community within it,” she said.
We’re thrilled to welcome Natasha to the Mendenhall Mall family and can’t wait to see Bloom continue to grow, inspire, and celebrate creativity under her care.