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Kristina Skillin MSc, Executive Director / Co-Founder

Kristina Skillin, Executive Director and Co-founder of the Museum of Beadwork, is an artist, archeologist, and historian who traces the human narrative to connect historical practices to the development of technologies and products throughout humanity’s history. As a professionally trained artist and scientist she engages diverse audiences through the creation of art and adornment, microscopy-based research, and by co-founding the Museum of Beadwork; one goal of which is to show the connection and interconnection of peoples through the common human practice of ornamentation and design. She holds two B.A.s in Metals and Jewelry, and Classical Languages, as well as a M.Sc. from the University of Aberdeen in Archaeology.

Leonora Shell, Director of Programs

Leonora Shell is deeply curious, enthusiastic and loves bugs. She brings nearly 20 years of expertise as an educator for students from elementary through graduate school and a depth of experience in leading global participatory projects with an emphasis on art + science.  

Ms. Shell is passionate about encouraging people to follow their curiosity and learn about the world around them through museum access. She is the former Education Program Director at SciStarter engaging underrepresented populations in the process of science. She is also the former Digital Learning Specialist at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the former Curator of Digital Media for the Public Science Lab of North Carolina State University. Leonora Shell received her B.S. in Entomology from the University of California, Davis and her M.A. in Teaching from the Mississippi University for Women. 

Paul Fidalgo, Communications Consultant


Paul Fidalgo is former editor of Free Inquiry magazine. He has worked in nonprofit and advocacy communications for almost two decades, including serving ten years as communications director of the Center for Inquiry. He holds a master’s degree in political management from George Washington University, and his writing has appeared in outlets such as CNN, USA Today, Religion News Service, Dark Mountain, Skeptical Inquirer, Friendly Atheist, and Android Police. Paul is also a professional actor, musician, and director who has performed with companies such as the American Shakespeare Center, Fenix Theater, and Schoolhouse Arts, and directed several productions for the University of New England's UNE Players.

Heather Kahn, Founder

Heather was inspired to found the Museum of Beadwork during a visit to Seattle. As one of the family owners of Caravan Beads, Heather has spent more than 30 years building a comprehensive knowledge of beadweaving, bead-embroidery and other types of beaded artwork. Her designs have been published in Beadwork Magazine, made into kits, and sold as finished jewelry. In 2008 she founded Chrononaut Mercantile, a costume-inspired clothing company, with her partner Jeff Witkavitch. Heather is a graduate of Smith College. Her diverse interests include cooking, ninjutsu, reading and classical violin.