Chama Valley Arts
"Cultivating Creativity, Learning, and Community through Arts and Culture"
Our Team...
Anita Massari
Executive Director
I was born, raised, and homeschooled in Abiquiu, New Mexico.
I found my calling in education in my late teens when teaching English to adult immigrants. After beginning to work with children, I decided to pursue an undergraduate in Education at UNM. Following my passion to provide support to those who need it most, I received my BA in Special Education. I now live between Chama and Dulce, where I am raising my daughters, baking, gardening, dancing, making fiber and bead work crafts. I continue to realize my heart’s desire to support growth in everyone.
Trisha Sanchez
Director of Operations
I was born in Radford, VA. At the age of 4, I moved and was raised in Colorado. After graduating from high school, I attended Cosmetology school in Maryland and transferred to Fort Collins, Colorado, where I received my license. I then attended Pikes Peak Community College, where I received my Associate's in Business Accounting. and earned my certificate in animal behavior and Early Childhood Education. I have had the great pleasure of working at Hanover/ Edison School District 54Jt outside of
Colorado Springs, and Our Savior Lutheran School in Pagosa Springs. I have a great passion for
working with Children and love the world of arts and crafts. After my son went off to College, I decided it was time for a change, and in 2019, I found a small gift store in Chama, NM. It allowed me to dive into my Artisan side. I started making soaps, lotions, salves, and candles. I also found I love to sublimate and laser engrave wood and acrylic. I believe most people have a passion for the arts, like me. If they could have the opportunity to draw on a canvas, make a candle, use a camera, sing a song, play an instrument, or learn a new dance, it would bring them great joy. Many people do not have the opportunity, or maybe they just need a little guidance to embrace their artisan side. I think the Chama Valley Art Center is where the magic lives. Offering our community the wonderful opportunity to bring out our creative side.
Monika Zawadzka Varn
Director of Communications & Outreach
Monika is a creative force and community builder whose work blends artistry, wellness, and the power of human connection. With nearly two decades of experience in marketing, public relations, and event production across the U.S., Mexico, and Europe, she has a gift for turning vision into moments that move the soul. As CEO and founder of True Manna, Monika has created spaces where people can gather, heal, and express themselves.
In her role as Communication Director, Monika is passionate about amplifying the voices of local and regional artists, celebrating the Chama Valley’s unique creative spirit, and—most importantly—nurturing the creative spark in children. She believes that when young minds are given the freedom to imagine, they grow into confident, compassionate innovators who will carry the Valley’s cultural legacy forward. For Monika, this is more than communications—it is storytelling that builds bridges between art, community, and generations yet to come.
