OUR TEACHERS
JASON PENFOLD
Founder, Ceramics facilitator and Social worker
Jason is a sculptor with a background in fine art, art therapy, and a Bachelor of Social Science, with experience in both social work and mental health. As the founder of Soft Gold Studio, he brings a deep belief in the power of art to express, connect, and heal. With a warm and inclusive approach, Jason creates spaces where people feel safe to explore their creativity and find community through creative expression and art making.
BETRA FRAVAL
Painter, mentor, and community arts facilitator.
Betra is a practicing painter with a background in fine art and community cultural development. She has worked for over four years as an arts mentor in community mental health and brings a warm, thoughtful approach to her teaching. Passionate about helping others realise their creative potential, Betra blends strong technical knowledge with a deep commitment to inclusive, community-based arts practice.
JESS DYBING
Ceramics Facilitator
Jess is a ceramic artist and experienced teacher with a Bachelor of Arts (Fine Art) in Ceramics. Actively involved in Melbourne’s ceramics community, she brings a rich blend of technical expertise and thoughtful guidance to her teaching. Jess has also worked in schools as a teacher’s aide supporting children with disabilities, and brings a calm, inclusive approach to her work. She finds deep meaning in sharing the craft of ceramics, helping others build confidence, develop new skills, and discover the joy of making with clay.
RHYS DELINAC
Sculpture & Illustration Facilitator
Rhys is a multidisciplinary artist working across sculpture and illustration, with a practice deeply inspired by patterns found in nature and personal experience. His work is thoughtful and expressive, often exploring the quiet relationships between material, form, and environment. Rhys is passionate about sharing the creative process and finds deep meaning in supporting others to explore their own artistic voice. He brings a generous, community-minded approach to his teaching, creating space for reflection, discovery, and connection through making.