Meet Mrs. Nichols

ABOUT ME

Hi! My name is Susan Nichols and I just completed my 30th year teaching art to Pre-K through 4th grade at Sacred Heart. Since I was very young, my love of art was fostered by my father, who was both a physicist as well as an artist.  In high school I developed a love of children as I had many babysitting and nannying jobs. I especially enjoyed making art with them! My love of art history, which I incorporate into my classes, was born during my freshman year in college.  Teaching art to pre and elementary students is the perfect way to combine all of my passions!

MY PHILOSOPHY

My mission in art class is to foster students' creativity, imagination, and self-expression while celebrating each child's individuality.  I seek to enhance their global art experience by introducing artists and art from other countries, not only increasing their knowledge of various cultures but also inspiring them.

I believe the basic elements and principles of art should be taught in a fun, hands-on way, through the use of a variety of artistic techniques, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and 3-D creation.  Art should offer a therapeutic reprieve from daily pressures.

I believe in the creation of a safe environment in which students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions freely and openly.  I emphasize that there is no "right" or "wrong" in art and that the artistic process is as important as the final product.  My goal is to increase each student's confidence in her artistic abilities and to cultivate a life-long love and appreciation for art.