A bit more about me...
You might find me kayaking down a creek, hiking a mountain in Colorado, searching for morels in early spring in a Wisconsin forest, or wandering along the edge of a rainforest on a beach in Costa Rica. I feel at home in the wild and it's what inspires me. If I'm not on the trail, I might be in my painting studio, in the midst of writing a book, on the mat, editing, or contributing to All Kind Project. All is a part of my life work, which is steeped in purpose and passion. It all begins with the beautiful questions...
What is that space between ideas and the creation-where passion and inspiration are blended? That space that dreams and aspirations, wonderment, awe and faith are found? I am drawn to the process of how an idea becomes what curiosity, exploration, graceful intention and authentic expression guide it to be. This is why I dedicate myself to being a creator-of stories and books, paintings, jewelry, places, classes, businesses, peace, kindness and well being. The sacred creation of one's life for the highest good. Passion to purpose. Unifying nature around and within as wild-inspired, spirit-ful experiences, products and places... to...Live Your Light!
All that I offer is interwoven into a tapestry of what I find meaningful and beautiful, expressed through creativity and the simplicity of Being. Into each product and offering, I bring wisdom from the great teachers I've had and continue to learn from. Each of the cornerstones of what I feel is inspired by beautiful questions is touched upon in my work-beauty around and within-exploring, expansion and expression. If you work with me with writing services, you’ll feel the gentleness of my nature-inspired approach and the peacefulness of yogic arts. If you join a yoga class, you’ll learn a bit about your own nature as we nurture creativity through movements, breathing and stillness. The intention of my art and books is to share with others, my experience of what beauty is in the world, the way I interpret it. All with a foundation of kindness as a lifestyle.
Thank you for your time spent with me. I'm glad our paths have crossed.
Education. Certifications. Memberships. (more related credentials are on each corresponding page)
- BS in Education -UW Wisconsin, Madison
- MA in Curriculum and Instruction-Louis University
- Member -SCBWI
- Certified Experienced Yoga Instructor
- Certified Meditation Instructor
- MA Reiki Teacher
- Thai Yoga Level I
Author- Artist Statement
Asking the Beautiful Questions...I am inspired by wonder to create. I strive to create that which can in some way, affect others positively. While working through the process of whatever I'm creating, teaching or working on, I try to come from a place of peace and gratitude. Nature inspires me. Family, both immediate and global -grounds me. Seeking, learning and discovering fuels me to go beyond. Love and my Faith, bring me Home. Live Your Light!
The Arts Mill
1300, 14th Avenue, Grafton WI 53024
The Arts Mill is a charming building registered with the National Historic Landmark. Situated along the Milwaukee River with views of the river dam lighting, it is a destination you won’t want to miss. Built in 1884, the Arts Mill brings history while being the perfect place to shop for original art, yarn, and the art in the gallery. Stop in and enjoy a hot coffee or cold beer, take a yoga class or private writing session and enjoy the creative vibes where you'll be warmly welcomed.
I wear several hats at the Arts Mill so chances are you'll see me around if you stop in. I hope our paths cross while you are here for a visit.
North Shore Academy of the Arts, inc.
1111 Broad Street, Grafton WI 53024
North Shore Academy of the Arts, Inc. is a Not-for-Profit organization offering quality opportunities in the visual, performing and literary arts that I founded. Working closely with Paula, I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to be among the great artists, families, students, volunteers, board directors, instructors, directors, businesses and foundations that have helped grow the organization to what it is. Having worked as a Producer and Director of Stagekids for many years, I've had the honor to work with many creative people in the process of putting on musicals. NSAA has served southeast Wisconsin for over two decades.. Thanks to all who continue to support this organization.
How do others express their experiences with me?
“Sheri Bestor is an absolute joy to know and work for. Every fiber of her being is full of creativity and entrepeneurship. She had a vision for the North Shore Academy of the Arts and has kept the vision growing strong for a decade. Sheri works extremely well with all of her employees and peers, the children at the academy as well as their families. She has mastered the art of continuously reinventing herself as well as the academy. Sheri is an extremely energetic person who knows how to mobilize people for a creative cause. She has a heart of gold and has given the totality of her being to ensure that the arts is kept strong in southeastern Wisconsin and that everyone has a chance to fulfill their dreams.”
Angela Mack, Marketing Director and Performing Arts Teacher, North Shore Academy of the Arts .
“Sheri has a wonderful dedication and passion for providing children the opportunity of learning and expressing themselves by utilizing their interest and talents using the arts. Her follow through and persistence has enabled her organization to grow and prosper because of her leadership, vision and commitment.”
Les Weil , Principal, Les Weil Consulting, LLC
“Sheri is a creative and honest person to work with. The well being of our fellow workers and students always takes priority with her decisions in regard to the academy. She has been a pleasure to work with during an exciting time of continued growth and challenges.”
Paula Christensen, Program Director, North Shore Academy of the Arts
“I have known Sheri as a person willing to promote classes for adult playwrights at NSAA, and as well I have been able to turn to NSAA to recruit theatre talent from their ranks for one of my shows. I have found NSAA to be a remarkable organization, open to bringing multimedia learning to all age levels; I have watched it grow under the years under her guidance and have been inspired by her vision for the community at large.”
Michele Merens, Playwright and Writer, Self-employed
"Sheri Mabry is the rarest of individuals, the kind whose talent and achievements would usually be heralded and much touted. But because of her humble and self-effacing demeanor, Sheri usually deflects the much-deserved praise she garners on to those lucky enough to be her collaborators. I have known Sheri for many years but continue to be amazed at this Midwest Renaissance Woman. Not only does she write nationally-published books, run a successful non-profit arts organization and studio, teach yoga classes, offer healing Reiki sessions, but she has raised three remarkable daughters who reflect perfectly their mother's admirable attributes. Therein lies her greatest achievement." ~Emmy-award-winning composer/performer Kurt Bestor
