This December, we are delighted to shine a festive spotlight on two of our neighborhood’s most creative residents — Geoff and Paige Byrne. Known for their warmth, talent, and love for community, the Byrnes have called Ardsley home for eight years. Their golden doodles, Mardi and Tux, are often spotted trotting happily alongside them on neighborhood walks — always ready to greet new friends.

Originally from opposite ends of the East Coast — Geoff from Rhode Island and Paige from Tennessee — the couple first met in Washington, D.C., where they lived for over twenty years and built impressive careers as art educators. Geoff taught at Georgetown Day School, while Paige inspired young artists at Horace Mann Elementary. “We always talked about moving south,” Geoff recalls, “and finally took the leap and made the move. Soon after, we bought Scribble Art Studio.”

Today, the Byrnes are the heart and soul behind Scribble Art Studio, a creative hub offering classes for all ages. Their programs range from after-school and homeschool art classes to portfolio prep sessions for students applying to art schools. They also host adult workshops, art birthday parties, and even corporate retreats. “We basically offer it all,” Geoff says with a smile. “And during the holidays, we love offering small art camps for kids while they’re on break — it’s always a fun and festive time at the studio.”

Paige adds, “Scribble offers traditional studio classes such as drawing, painting, printmaking, and fiber arts for youth and adults. Our homeschool classes are really picking up, and it’s wonderful to see that sense of curiosity and creativity growing in the next generation.”

The Byrnes’ passion for the arts extends far beyond their studio walls. They regularly display local artists’ work in monthly exhibits and generously support a variety of causes including All About Cats Sanctuary in Hilton Head, Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society, the Savannah African Art Museum, Friends of Oatland Island, GoDesign Inc., the Girl Scouts of America, and the Jewish Educational Alliance.

Their own art practices are just as inspiring. Geoff is drawn to graphic design, photography, and painting on wood using acrylic and resin. He earned his BFA from Alfred University in upstate New York and his MFA from Washington University in St. Louis. Paige, who recently completed her MFA in Painting at SCAD, finds joy in painting and drawing. “The SCAD painting program really improved my approach to color and palette,” she says. “It gave me the full-circle experience I wanted as an art teacher — something I can now share with my students for years to come.”

When they’re not teaching or creating, Geoff and Paige enjoy traveling, cooking, beach days, and poolside gatherings. Their cabin in Clayton, Georgia offers a peaceful retreat, and they cherish time spent visiting family in Tennessee, Rhode Island, and Maine. They also love inviting neighbors and friends over for a swim — a perfect reflection of their open-hearted spirit.

As the holiday season approaches, the Byrnes look forward to simple joys. “I can’t wait for crackling fires, trying new recipes for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and of course homemade Chex Mix!” says Geoff. “I love lighting up our decorated house and watching The Grinch and A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

For Paige, this time of year is about reflection and gratitude. “I’m looking forward to growth in my faith and family,” she shares. “Savannah is such a lively place with so many sunny days. I cherish the quiet moments walking Mardi and Tux, listening, praying, and seeing God’s plan unfold. Simple living — that’s what this season means to me.”

The Byrnes have truly brought color, creativity, and kindness to Ardsley — both through their art and their generous hearts. Whether you meet them at Scribble Art Studio, spot them walking their doodles, or share a laugh by their pool, you’ll quickly see why this artistic duo embodies the warmth of our community this holiday season.