The Dream Team
Who We Are
Rita Makai (she/her)
Program Facilitator & Homeschool Lead
Hi, I’m Rita! I’m an OCT certified Visual Art Teacher, Montessori and French
teacher, but most importantly, I’m a lifelong explorer of creativity. For over 20
years, I’ve guided children in Montessori classrooms, private schools, and art
studios, helping them discover the joy of learning and the magic of creating.
To me, learning should always feel like play—hands-on, joyful, and full of
imagination. Whether it’s teaching a new French phrase, introducing a famous
artist, or painting with unexpected colors, I love sparking curiosity and wonder in
every lesson.
Every summer, I lead art camps, some are outdoor art adventures ,where
children paint under the sunshine, listen to the rustle of leaves, and use nature
itself as their canvas. Together, we explore colors, textures, and creative
techniques, always celebrating the process as much as the final masterpiece.
I have been a member of the Hungarian Visual Artists of Canada for 20 years
and showcased my own artwork in both solo and group exhibitions in Hungary
and Canada
✨ Fun Fact: Once, I spilled coffee all over my drawing paper-oops! Instead of
throwing it away, I turned it into art. That happy accident inspired me to
experiment with natural paints, like beet juice.
Eden Lee (they/them)
Program Facilitator
Eden is a visual artist, curator, and children's art instructor with an educational background in language & literature as well as drawing & painting. Eden enjoys exploring and encouraging worldbuilding and brainstorming. They aspire to foster a studio environment that is child-led, as well as curiosity-driven and compassion-focused. With work experience in childcare programs, humanitarian aid settings, arts camps, and art therapy workshops, it is their priority to encourage creative projects that come from a place of hope. They believe in fueling the nonlinear process of painting while always making room for play and mess. They love experimenting with natural materials and listening to the stories that each child is eager to tell. In their free time, Eden loves to bake cookies and spend time walking or journalling in nature- some favourite animals include pigeons, snakes, and cats of all kinds.
Marianna Esposito
Italian Artist Therapist, Atelierist
Hello, I'm Marianna Esposito!
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My journey began at the Paolo Toschi Institute of Art, where I discovered the transformative power of art in supporting and inspiring others, building on the positive experiences of those who came before me. I continued my academic path at the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna, specializing in Communication and Teaching Art.
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During my studies, I completed an internship at the Loris Malaguzzi International Center as an atelierista. The successful outcome of this internship led to an extended collaboration with the center.
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In 2019, I embraced the opportunity to work as an atelierista in a school in Vietnam. Returning to Reggio Emilia in January 2020, I pursued a master's degree in Artistic therapy while continuing my work with the International Center. In March 2023, I proudly graduated with my master's degree, marking a significant milestone in my academic journey.
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Eager to broaden my horizons, I decided to embark on a new adventure outside Italy, relocating to Canada.
