Larry Quick, Founder

Larry is a professional artist who grew up in Washington, D.C.'s low-income and public housing neighborhoods. As a child, Larry would hole up in his bedroom and draw on the walls to escape the harsh surroundings outside. His natural artistic talent earned him a spot at the prestigious Corcoran School of Art where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Art Degree. After graduating, Larry returned to his old neighborhood and became the founder of Life Pieces to Masterpieces. Today, Larry continues to provide guidance and offer inspiration to a new generation of artists.

Mary Brown, Executive Director

Mary is the co-founder and Executive Director of Life Pieces To Masterpieces, Inc., and has been with the organization since its inception in 1996. Mary graduated from Xavier University in New Orleans and has worked with low-income youth for over 20 years. Mary has received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Mayor's Spirit of Neighborhood Action Award, the Agusta Savage Arts Leadership Award, a Community Service Award from the Monica Davis Show, and an Outstanding Youth Educator Award from the See Forever Foundation. She also serves on the Board of Directors for a number of organizations including the Washington Area Lawyers for the Arts, Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools, and Ward 7 Arts Collaborative. In addition to her work with Life Pieces, Mary is also a Training Consultant with Neighborworks America.

Loretta Curry, Program Director

Loretta is a native New Orleanian and graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana. She received her degree in Business Administration and worked in retail management upon graduating. Before long, Loretta realized her true passion - early childhood education and development. She worked as a special education teacher in the New Orleans Public School System for two years before moving to Houston, Texas. Once there, Loretta worked for 15 years at Kathy's Kiddie Corner , where she became assistant director. She eventually returned to New Orleans and worked as director of Kiddie Care Zone for four years. As program director, Loretta manages the day-to-day operations at LPTM, oversees the nutrition program, and assists with homework and tutoring.

Ben Johnson, Director of Resource Development

Ben, who graduated from SUNY Ulster in New York, has been working with Life Pieces To Masterpieces since 2000.  Starting in a volunteer capacity, Ben transitioned to a full-time employee in 2001, and has had oversight of the organizations resource development since 2002.  Ben also coaches the LPTM Basketball team, and received an Exceptional Fundraising Professional Award on National Capital Philanthropy Day in 2005.

Seneca Wells, Artistic Director

Seneca Wells, a native Washingtonian and graduate of H.D. Woodson High School has been with Life Pieces for over nine years.  Starting as a special apprentice to co-founder and professional artist Larry Quick, Seneca has transitioned into the role of Art Assistant. Seneca studied at the Corcoran School of Art, and recently won and ARCH Artist in Residence fellowship.

Maurice Kie, Youth Mentor and Board Member

Maurice Kie, who is one of the original seven founding LPTM apprentices currently serves as a Senior Mentor at LPTM.  Maurice studied at Morgan State University for two years before transferring to the University of the District of Columbia, where he is now a part-time Education major.  Maurice also served as an intern with the Hunton & Williams Law Firm for over a year.

Annette Debrew, Accountant

Board of Directors

  • Raymond Covington, Board President
  • Joe Bruncsak, Treasurer and Vice President
  • Maurice Kie, Secretary
  • Elizabeth Shaw
  • Russell Robinson
  • Susie Stevenson
  • Sarah Adkinson