Meet Jodee Luna | Artist, Author, Owner of Luna Arts & ED LLC & JoDee Luna Art

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jodee Luna and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi JoDee, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Luna Arts & ED LLC positively impacts the community and the world by making arts education accessible and engaging for all. Through arts-integration virtual lessons, professional development, and SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) strategies, the business fosters creativity, emotional well-being, and academic success. Additionally, Luna Arts & ED LLC supports schools and districts with strategic arts planning and implementation, ensuring that arts remain a vital part of education. By engaging families in community arts experiences, the business strengthens connections and promotes lifelong learning through creativity.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an oil, mixed media, and acrylic portrait artist, as well as the author of Refrain from the Identical: Insights and Inspiration for Creative Eclectics. As the owner of JoDee Luna Art and Luna Arts & Ed, LLC, I am passionate about making learning fun and art accessible for all. What sets my work apart is my ability to integrate the arts with research-based strategies and instructional routines to enhance education. I don’t just teach art—I help people of all ages discover their creativity and overcome artistic blocks so they can fully realize their potential.
My journey has been filled with both challenges and incredible opportunities. After retiring from public education over five years ago, I planned to embrace a life of ease. However, I was given a meaningful opportunity by the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) and Principal Rebekah McConnell of Sierra Elementary to bring the arts back to the Lancaster School District, CA. This reignited my mission to advocate for arts in education, having seen firsthand how the arts transform classrooms—boosting teacher efficacy, fostering students’ social and emotional skills, and accelerating learning.
The road hasn’t always been easy, but the rewards far outweigh the struggles. Witnessing the joy on students’ faces, seeing families connect through creativity, and supporting educators in integrating the arts into their teaching make every challenge worthwhile. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that perseverance, passion, and community support can turn obstacles into steppingstones.
What I want the world to know about my story and brand is that the arts are more than just an extracurricular activity—they are a vital, transformative force in education and life. The arts nurture the soul, expand the mind, and bring a sense of purpose to learning. Through my work, I aim to ensure that creativity remains at the heart of education and personal growth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I would plan an unforgettable week filled with scenic views, delicious food, and cultural experiences in Southern California.
Day 1-2: Temecula Valley Wine Country
We’d start with a tour of Temecula Valley’s exquisite wine country, stopping first at Mira Monte Winery for lunch overlooking the rolling vineyards. The afternoon would be spent at Wilson Creek Winery, where we’d sip wine while listening to live music and soaking in the warm sunshine.
Day 3-4: Carlsbad & the Beach
Next, we’d drive to Carlsbad Village to explore the charming boutiques, art galleries, and beachside cafés. A full day would be dedicated to relaxing at the beach, feeling the ocean breeze, and watching the sunset. We’d wrap up the evening dining at one of Carlsbad’s incredible waterfront restaurants.
Day 5: Old Town San Diego
For a cultural experience, we’d head to Old Town San Diego, where history, music, and authentic cuisine come together. We’d wander through the historic mission, listen to street musicians, and enjoy vibrant Mexican cuisine at one of the many festive restaurants.
Day 6-7: Coronado Island
To finish off the week, we’d visit Coronado Island, where we’d stroll along the beach and soak in the stunning views. A highlight would be dining at the famous Hotel del Coronado, where the combination of ocean waves, historic elegance, and a delightful meal would be the perfect ending to an unforgettable trip.
This itinerary blends relaxation, adventure, culture, and indulgence, creating a truly memorable Southern California experience!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate my shoutout to my husband and co-business owner, Justin Luna. His unwavering support, inspiration, and hands-on assistance have been instrumental in making Luna Arts & ED LLC a reality. From brainstorming ideas to helping with implementation, he has been a constant source of encouragement and partnership in this journey.
I also want to recognize our incredible team of educator-artists and subcontractors who bring so much creativity, passion, and expertise to our work. Gina Wilson (Gina Wilson Art), Elya Moline (Elya Moline Creations), and Andy Bradley (Two Trees Productions) have all contributed immensely, providing fresh business ideas, innovative arts-integration lessons, and inspiring creative experiences. Their dedication to making art accessible and meaningful fuels our mission every day.
Success is never a solo journey, and I am deeply grateful for the amazing people who support, uplift, and inspire me in both business and life.

Website: https://lunaartsed.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodeeluna/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodee-luna-66893517/

Twitter: https://x.com/JoDeeLuna

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jodeelunaart

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jodeelunaart

Other: https://jodeelunaart.com