Who We are and What we DO
Ms. Carly
Hi, I'm Carly Klimke, the founder, owner and teacher at Canvas & Code.
After 21 years as an educator, I saw firsthand how hands-on, creative learning sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and helps students develop critical thinking skills. With a background in early childhood education, a master’s in curriculum and instruction, and years of experience teaching at a pioneering STEAM elementary school, I’ve always been passionate about helping learners of all ages grow through exploration.
I created Canvas & Code to bring that same sense of wonder and possibility to the broader community. This studio is a place where children, families, and adults can come together to experiment, create, and connect — blending art with science, technology, engineering, and math in meaningful, memorable ways.
When I’m not teaching or planning new classes, you’ll often find me kayaking on local waterways, relaxing near the water, or snuggled up with my two cats, Gracie and Willow. I love spending time with friends and family, and I’m always working on a new creative project — from watercolor painting and card making to quilting, gardening, and handmade gifts. Exploring new ways to create is one of my greatest joys.
I truly believe that everyone has the ability to be creative and innovative. At Canvas & Code, my goal is to help you unlock your imagination and discover what you can build, design, and explore.
I hold a current Oregon teaching license, with background clearances for teaching, volunteering, and hosting foster children. I’m also certified in First Aid and CPR, and committed to keeping all certifications and training up to date to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all.
What Is STEAM?
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math — a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to learning that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Instead of teaching each subject in isolation, STEAM shows how they work together in the real world.
For example, designing a bridge combines engineering and math, while coding an animation blends technology and art. In our studio, students might paint watercolor animal habitats while investigating real animal behaviors, practice counting and pattern-making through jewelry design, or build fine-motor skills with sensory exploration tubs — all while learning valuable skills and having fun.
STEAM education is important because it helps learners think creatively, solve complex problems, and adapt in an ever-changing world. These skills are in high demand for future careers in fields like robotics, game design, architecture, medicine, engineering, environmental science, and countless others. But even beyond jobs, STEAM fosters curiosity and big-picture thinking — empowering people to imagine, innovate, and make a difference in their communities and beyond.
Over the years, many schools have worked to integrate STEAM activities into their classrooms because of the incredible benefits they bring. Unfortunately, due to limited funding, packed schedules, and growing academic pressures, these hands-on, creative opportunities are often the first to be reduced or eliminated. As a result, STEAM learning — and the critical skills it develops — is missing from many classrooms today. Yet research and experience show that integrating STEAM not only deepens academic understanding but also improves student behavior, attention, and focus. It encourages teamwork and collaboration, sparks imagination, and gives learners a sense of purpose and pride in what they create. By blending creativity with problem-solving, STEAM helps students of all ages feel more engaged, confident, and connected — skills they carry far beyond the classroom.
All Are Welcome
At Canvas & Code, we believe creativity and learning are for everyone. Our studio is a welcoming, inclusive space where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can feel comfortable exploring, creating, and growing.
We strive to meet the needs of every learner by offering flexible, hands-on activities that can be adapted to different abilities, interests, and learning styles. Whether you need extra support, sensory-friendly options, or just a little more time to dive into a project, we’re here to help make the experience meaningful and enjoyable for you. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to support you or your child better.
Everyone belongs at Canvas & Code — and everyone has something unique and valuable to contribute.
