The Miss Bea Project
Inspiring Young Artists Across Clatsop County
Through a dynamic partnership with Clatsop County school districts, AVA is bringing the power of the arts to students at Astoria Choice Academy, Astoria High School (AHS), Knappa High School (KHS), and Warrenton High School (WHS)—creating hands-on, minds-on experiences that build skills, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Here’s how AVA is igniting creativity with the Miss Bea Project:
🎨 Weekly arts classes at Gray School for K–12 students at Astoria Choice Academy
🎭 Artist-led workshops held regularly on and off campus at AHS, KHS, WHS, and Gray School
🖌️ Studio visits and hands-on sessions with local professional artists
🚌 Annual field trip to Portland’s vibrant art scene—a highlight of the year for participating students
🎓 Opportunities to attend post-secondary art classes in Astoria and Portland
🖼️ Participation in a county-wide student art show hosted at the AVA Gallery
Meet Keri Domer
Miss Bea Project Coordinator
With over 20 years of teaching experience, a Master’s in Science Education, and endorsements in both Elementary (K–8) and Art Education (K–12), Keri Domer brings unmatched expertise and heart to The Miss Bea Project. Her passion for creative expression and deep commitment to youth education make her an inspiring leader in shaping meaningful, hands-on art experiences for students across Clatsop County.
We're proud to have Keri guiding this vital AVA program.
The Miss Bea Johnson Fund
Established in 2011 with a generous gift from local artists Noel Thomas and Pat Staton Thomas, the Miss Bea Johnson Fund supports school-age artists and promotes high-quality fine arts education in our local schools. Thanks to this fund, we’re building a vibrant, artistic future—one student at a time.
The Story Behind the Name
The Miss Bea Project is named in honor of Miss Bea Johnson, the beloved Longview, Washington 8th-grade art teacher of local artist Noel Thomas. Miss Bea recognized Noel’s talent early on and encouraged him to apply to the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. Her guidance shaped his future—he went on to graduate and build a lifelong career in the arts. Today, Noel is a celebrated watercolorist and a proud member of both the American Watercolor Society and the Northwest Watercolor Society.
The program is funded in part by AVA members and donors, with support from the foundations and local businesses listed below:
Oregon Community Foundation | Autzen Foundation | Reser Family Foundation
US Bank Foundation | Samuel S. Johnson Foundation | Herbert A. Templeton Foundation
Hampton Family Foundation | Fred W. Fields Fund | Irene Gerlinger Swindells Fund
Clatsop County Cultural Coalition | Astoria Coffeehouse & Bistro | Fine Art Supply
