A former professional portrait photographer, Diana now offers local art classes in Apex.

My husband, Steve, and I live in Apex with our three beautiful daughters. We consider ourselves blessed to have lived here for almost 9 years! I spent over 20 years freelancing as a professional portrait photographer, but have left that passion behind to pursue painting. I am now enjoying life as a mixed-media collage artist. While the subject matter of my work varies, I consistently seek to explore the seasons and emotions of the heart, and to show love to others through art and the artistic process.

For me, the absolute best part about being an artist is sharing it with others. I do this in many different ways. I have started a business called SunnysideUp! Studio, where I teach art classes out of my home studio for all ages. I also provide classes on location. I display and sell my artwork at several different locations including Creature’s Cafe in Asheville, One Heart Yoga in Fuquay-Varina, and a local favorite, Common Grounds in downtown Apex. Another way I share art with others is through live painting. Thursday mornings you can visit with me at Common Grounds-you never know what I will be working on! I also am available to paint during church worship services and to paint, speak and lead art projects with women’s groups.  2012 marks an exciting time for me as I am planning my first Creative Refreshment retreat for women in Black Mountain!

Q and A With Diana 

What is your favorite local restaurant?

Hands down, my favorite restaurant in Apex is the Salem Street Pub! The food is delicious, the waitstaff is awesome and the live music is rockin’ fun…What a great date night!

What is something most people don’t know about you?

This is a challenging question because I consider myself an open book with people. Perhaps I would like to share this, I have a dream. One day I hope to travel with rock stars and paint large scale works while they play. Sounds silly perhaps, but I believe that with God ALL things are possible.

What are you reading right now?

Truth be told, with two teenage daughters and one pre teen daughter, and an emerging career, I struggle finding time to read.

However,recently I read Gifts From the Sea by Ann Morrow Lindbergh. This book is incredible and should be read by every middle aged woman struggling to maintain her own identity in the midst of helping those around her discover their identities.

Contact Info: For info about classes, retreats, speaking engagements, or commissions, you can reach me at:

diana.yarish@yahoo.com  or (919)741-3279  or find me on Facebook at SunnysideUp! Studio or Diana Ramazzotti Yarish

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