● Our Teachers |
Discover a world of creativity and skill development with our comprehensive art programs at Champion Art, catering to ages from Grade K to Grade 12, as well as adults who are still interested in learning arts.
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Olivia Ouyang
Principal & Founder & Director Olivia Ouyang began her career as a 3D computer artist in the game industry, but she soon discovered that her true passion was not behind a screen—it was working directly with children, helping them grow through art. Nearly twenty years ago, she and her husband, Jeff Lee, founded Champion Art Studio and Champion Learning Academy in Cary NC. Since then, Olivia has guided thousands of students with warmth, patience, and dedication. Her classroom has become a place where children feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to express themselves with confidence and imagination. Under her leadership, Champion students earn National Gold Medals, Silver Medals, and top recognitions every year in major U.S. art competitions. Many go on to attend top universities and elite art programs, supported by the strong portfolios they build at Champion. In 2020, Olivia received the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards “Outstanding Educator Award,” a national honor given to teachers who profoundly shape students’ artistic journeys. She and Jeff have also been recognized by the Triangle Business Journal for their impact on arts education and community building. Today, Olivia continues to teach with the same passion that inspired her to start Champion—believing wholeheartedly that art can open doors, enrich lives, and empower the next generation of creators. Personal Website: www.oo-art.com Mr. Rob
Art Director Mr. Rob received his MFA in Fine Art from Boston University in 2013 and has been teaching at Champion Art since 2017. Over the years, he has helped many students gain admission to top art schools such as RISD, ArtCenter, and Ringling College of Art and Design. At Champion Art, he focuses on guiding students to create strong college portfolios and develop their confidence through art competitions. He believes art is a journey that allows everyone to express themselves, discover their potential, and communicate ideas through creativity. Mr. Justin
Art Teacher Mr. Justin currently teaches Adobe programs in Durham School of the Arts.He earned his BFA in Film & Television from Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) and later received his MFA in Studio Art from Stony Brook University. Prior to teaching he worked on several local TV shows, movies and commercials in New York. Mrs. Hyosook (Sue)
Art Teacher Ms. Hyosook (Sue) is an art instructor with over six years of experience teaching students from elementary through adults. With a background in fashion and graphic design, she brings professional creative expertise to her classes, teaching both foundational and advanced techniques across painting, drawing, pastels, and digital art. Her goal is to inspire creativity, encourage self-expression, and help students develop strong technical skills and their unique artistic voice.c voice. Ms. Joanne
Art Teacher Joanne grew up in northern New Jersey and moved to Cary, NC in 2017. She holds a B.A. in Studio Art from Drew University and an M.A. in Art Education from Lesley University. At Champion, she teaches art as well as English writing and illustration, drawing on her background as both an art and English teacher. In her free time, she enjoys creating art, listening to music, cooking, and going to the pool with her son. Mrs. Joanna
Art Teacher Ms. Joanna is an art educator with nearly 20 years of experience and has spent the past three years teaching teen art at Champion. She previously taught art in Cherry Creek School District, where she created innovative curricula and organized school-wide art shows. She holds a BFA in Education from Colorado State University and was named Sunrise Teacher of the Year for her contributions to students and community. Mr. Wang
Art Teacher Mr. Wang is an award-winning industrial designer with an MFA and MBA from NC State University. With professional experience at Lenovo and strong expertise in Blender, Adobe Creative Suite, SolidWorks, and traditional art, she brings industry-level creativity into the classroom. Lu is passionate about guiding students to develop strong design skills and explore their imagination with confidence. Mrs. Laura
Art Teacher Ms. Laura is an experienced and passionate Art Educator with over 20 years of teaching across North Carolina and international schools. She specializes in creative, hands-on lessons that integrate art with STEM, media, and cultural learning. Laura has led large-scale school projects, supported interdisciplinary programs, and inspired hundreds of young artists through engaging, student-centered instruction. Her work has been showcased in community spaces including the Apex Town Hall. Mr. William
Art Teacher Mr. William is an experienced art educator with a strong record of designing engaging, student-centered visual arts programs for grades 3–12. He has taught both middle school and high school, developing curriculum aligned with NC Visual Arts Standards and fostering inclusive, choice-based classrooms that encourage creativity and independent thinking. William holds a BFA in Art Education from East Carolina University and brings expertise in painting, digital illustration, multicultural art projects, and classroom management. A positive, dedicated teacher, he focuses on meeting students where they are, helping them build artistic skill, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. |
