Our Team
Yana Krakinovsky
Founder & Art Educator
Yana Krakinovsky is the founder and lead art educator at TONDO Art Studio, a traditional art school in Rockaway, New Jersey.
With a strong belief that artistic ability can be developed through proper instruction and consistent practice, Yana has built TONDO around a classical structured, skill-based approach to art education.
Her teaching philosophy is rooted in traditional art training, with an emphasis on drawing fundamentals, observation, proportion, form, perspective, composition, color, and technique. Rather than focusing on short-term crafts or project-based activities, she guides students toward building a strong artistic foundation and developing skills that will last a lifetime.
Her goal is simple: Real art education, real skills, and real progress.
Lindsay Piasio
Lindsay is a passionate and creative instructor with a deep love for working with children. As an instructor at Tondo, she brings her unique “alternative approach” to art, guiding children to explore their creativity using unconventional materials and techniques. Lindsay’s focus is on the process, not the perfect outcome - she encourages kids to be the "Captain of their Creation," helping them develop problem-solving skills, confidence, and a love for self-expression.
Lindsay has a natural ability to connect with kids and make them feel heard and understood. Growing up in a large family, Lindsay learned early on how to balance fun and structure, creating an environment where kids feel both safe and inspired. Her classes are all about embracing imagination, thinking outside the box, and having fun along the way.
Alexandra Demina
Miss Alex currently studying Visual Arts while working here at Tondo. She believes that every child is capable of far more than they realize. Having often heard phrases like “I can’t do this” or “I don’t know how to do this,” she is committed not only to teaching, but also to encouraging, supporting, and inspiring children to see that they can accomplish anything.
She is fascinated by the imagination of children and their unique way of seeing the world. Working with them not only allows her to nurture their growth, but also inspires her in return, offering fresh perspectives and new discoveries every day.