The team behind the dream
A dream that combined two of our founder's passions: dance and children. She couldn't be more proud for AOM to be building a legacy that thrives on values like creativity, teamwork, family, and fun!
The Art of Motion (affectionately known as AOM) began as a dream.
Hannah Pasquinzo
Founder
Hannah was just naive and adventurous enough to think that she could start her own dance studio at the ripe 'ole age of 21. And thank goodness - AOM has been serving Northwest Arkansas for almost 25 years now! When she's not at the studio, you can find Hannah hanging out with her husband and two children or riding her horses.
Rachel Shock
Studio Manager & Instructor
Rachel is a Forney, Texas native and grew up dancing throughout the DFW area. In high school, she served as captain of her drill team and then went on to perform with the McLennan Community College dance team in Waco. She later relocating to Fayetteville to attend the University of Arkansas to obtain her degree in Journalism. With experience teaching a wide range of ages and styles, Rachel brings energy and passion to every class, though jazz holds a special place in her heart. Her favorite part of teaching at AOM is watching her students grow, both as dancers and as individuals.
Laine Butterfield
Instructor
Laine grew up in Austin, Texas, where she first discovered her love for dance as a young girl. Over the years, she has trained in a variety of styles, but her favorites have always been jazz and contemporary. Throughout high school, she found a passion for choreography, helping create and teach many of her drill team’s routines. Laine has always loved working with kids and has spent many years nannying and mentoring young dancers. Laine now attends the University of Arkansas, where she is pursuing a degree in Marketing and continues to stay involved in the dance community. She is so excited to be returning for her second year of teaching at The Art of Motion and can’t wait for another amazing season with the best staff and kiddos!
Gabby Garcia
Assistant Instructor
Gabby Garcia is a sophomore at the University of Arkansas studying Broadcast Journalism with dreams of becoming a sports broadcaster. Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Gabby has been dancing since she was seven, from competitive dance and high school drill team to dancing professionally for the Dallas Cowboys for three years. Her passion for dance has taken her to movies, music videos, and backup performances. Gabby loves all things pink, can’t resist a Dr. Pepper with coconut, and has a huge love for football, family, friends and living out her strong faith.
Stacey Lloyd
Curriculum Director, Instructor
Stacey grew up dancing in Austin, TX and then went on to receive a bachelors degree in dance management from Oklahoma City University. While in college Stacey performed with the American Spirit Dance Company and the OKC Arena Football cheerleaders. After college Stacey went on to perform worldwide with Royal Carribean International, locally for The Dance Project in Austin, TX and also danced for various tv and commercial gigs.
Now Stacey is passionate about instilling what she has learned as a professional and an artist in her students. She has over 15 years of teaching experience, this is her second year in Arkansas with The Art of Motion. When Stacey's not dancing, you can find her coaching CrossFit and lifting heavy weights. She loves incorporating fitness and muscle awareness into dance education.
Emma McCrory
Instructor
Emma is a sophomore at the University of Arkansas, where she is pursuing a degree in Animal Science. Originally from Cypress, Texas, she spent much of her childhood as a competitive dancer at her local studio along with being a member of her high school dance team. She trained in a wide range of styles and developed a love for tap, which still remains her favorite.
When she’s not at the studio, you’ll most likely find her spending time with any animals she can find, serving her community through philanthropic work or enjoying the company of her friends and family. Emma is incredibly excited to join The Art of Motion staff this year and is dedicated to inspiring the same passion and joy in her kiddos that her own teachers once sparked in her.
Ashley Mowrey
Instructor, Staff Training
After growing up as a competitive dancer in Dallas, Ashley attended the University of Arkansas and received her B.A. in Psychology. During and after college, Ashley taught at The Art of Motion for ten years from 2008-2018. After seeing a need for dancers to gain skills for confidence, mental strength, and a healthy mindset, Ashley transitioned into Life and Mindset Coaching for dancers. As a Certified Whole Person Coach and Certified Positive Psychology Coach, Ashley works with dancers through 1-1 coaching and group workshops and travels with the dance competition/convention, Embody Dance Conference, where she teaches mindset skills to dancers of all ages. Ashley is ecstatic to be back teaching dance at AOM and training the AOM teachers on teaching methods, mindset, and personal development.
Rachel Riley
Instructor, Office Assistant
Rachel is a sophomore at the University of Arkansas, studying both Advertising/Public Relations and Psychology. She grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she danced at her local studio from the age of two—both recreationally and competitively. Rachel has a passion for many styles of dance, but her favorites are hip hop and jazz. She also discovered a love for choreography while serving as captain of her high school’s spirit team. At AOM, she helps out both in classes and at the front desk, and she’s ecstatic to continue pursuing her passion for dance!
Olivia Smith
Instructor
Olivia grew up dancing both recreationally and competitively in Franklin, Tennessee and continued her training when she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma in high school. Tap has always been her favorite style, and she loves sharing that with her dancers. Olivia is currently pursuing a nursing degree at the University of Arkansas. Her love for dance and her heart for working with kids are what brought her to The Art of Motion! She’s so excited to be part of the AOM family and can’t wait to connect with the amazing dancers and their families!
What We Believe
We believe that dance education should allow children to discover a love for the art of dance in an environment that cultivates technique, creativity, and spirit!
So we aim to inspire confidence with every step we teach.
Our diverse group of highly qualified teachers is one of the best in Northwest Arkansas. Our dedication to age appropriate music, costuming and performances guarantee a family friendly environment for all.
We can't wait for you to join our dance family!
View our schedule and pricing, schedule a free trial class, or get registered now.
Happy Dancers and Parents