Stract Studios
Connecting color frequency, intentional mindfulness, and expressive reflection into every canvas and manuscript.
Joshua Merritt
Joshua Merritt is the creator, author, and primary intellectual motivator behind Stract Studios, the Paint Yourself Happy movement, and the Paint Yourself Happy book series.
As an ordained ministerial practitioner, artist, and author, Joshua formulated the AERR (Acknowledge, Embrace, Release, Replace) framework to bridge raw emotional truth with physical, intentional art-making.
The movement was built for anyone who needs more than a cheerful slogan and a blank page. No perfect paintings. No pretending. Just color, courage, and the stubborn human act of making something honest.
Laura Merritt
Laura Merritt holds a BA in Metaphysics and serves as a key creative collaborator and studio partner for Paint Yourself Happy.
She contributes metaphysical insight, artistic support, and spiritual resonance to intentional pieces, workshops, and bespoke ash memorials. Her deep understanding of spiritual energy and intentional focus helps ground the creative process and provide a sacred atmosphere for the movement's practices.
Melissa Maddeen
Melissa Maddeen serves as a key creative collaborator and studio partner for Paint Yourself Happy.
She contributes metaphysical insight, artistic support, and spiritual resonance to intentional pieces, workshops, and bespoke ash memorials. Her deep understanding of spiritual energy and intentional focus helps ground the creative process and provide a sacred atmosphere for the movement's practices.
The Technical Backbone
As Joshua's firstborn son and a day-one collaborator, Tyler Merritt handles the team's technical and development tasks. He serves as the vital digital backbone of Stract Studios, ensuring the lights stay on and the vision reaches those who need it through a seamless, beautifully crafted online sanctuary.
Aiyana Merritt
Public Relations Handler
Aiyana Merritt is the team's dedicated Public Relations handler. She passionately works to safeguard the community, manage public outreach, and ensure that every individual who interacts with Paint Yourself Happy feels seen, heard, and supported.