Teaching art and making art are very closely tied together. Both embrace asking questions, being present, understanding concepts through materials, and promote change and growth.
Creating is at the center of my teaching practice. I embolden students to explore their curiosities and interests through artistic media, envision solutions and persist through challenges.
In the studio, students own their learning through opportunities to integrate interdisciplinary concepts, collaborate and appreciate art and the world around them. I craft culturally relevant curricula and help all students reach their goals.
My favorite aspect of teaching is providing students with a caring and welcoming space to take creative risks, build confidence and engage positively within their community.
As an educator, I know that the ideal environment for fostering student success is one characterized by high, consistent standards, an acute sensitivity to students’ individual needs, and the meaningful relationships that are necessary to communicate both.
As an artist, I understand that artistic engagement fosters qualities including compassion, determination and curiosity. In addition to greater artistic literacy, it is my objective that students exit my classroom with greater problem solving and communication skills and a strong desire to continue engaging artistically with the world.