WELCOME TO ART !

This is a space where creativity comes to life! Students will explore new techniques, learn about artists from around the world, and discover the joy of expressing themselves through art. We’re excited to create, learn, and grow together!

Amazon Wishlist

2025/ 2026 ART SHOW

Classroom Volunteer

Art History for Kids

by Comic Kids

Welcome!

Art is more than drawing or painting—it’s a way of thinking, seeing, and telling stories without words. In this class, you’ll learn to look closely, think creatively, and express ideas that are uniquely your own.

You don’t need to be “good” at art—you just need to be willing to try, to experiment, to make a mess, and to be curious. We’ll explore tools and techniques, study the art of cultures and creators from around the world, and most importantly, discover how to use art to connect with ourselves and others.

So come in with an open mind, ready hands, and your imagination—we have an exciting journey ahead!

Educational Philosophy

We believe Picasso said it best: "Every child is an artist." Each child brings a unique perspective, along with their own ideas and creative abilities that no one else can replicate. Our goal is to make the art room a space where students feel safe, inspired, and free to express themselves—an environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and, above all, fun!

What we are looking forward to...

We’re excited to explore art education by studying the works of master artists, reading art books, experimenting with various mediums, and learning to recognize how elements like color, line, shape, texture, form, perspective, and value appear in everything around us.

Meet the Teachers

" The more I think it over, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." -Vincent Van Gogh

Mrs. Laura Church

Hi Panthers!!

My name is Laura Church and this is my 4th year here at Benjamin Franklin. I have loved art all my life and when I was your age it was my most favorite thing to do at school! When I am not teaching art or making art or thinking about art, I really like to take my little dog Winnie on walks because I love to be outside. I also love the color green, reading books with happy endings, going to new places, and eating yummy chocolate, especially when it is in a cookie! I am excited for a new year of creation and inspiration in the art room!

BFA- Painting & Drawing- University of Utah

Milan Art Institute Mastery Program

Meet Your Art Teacher Video

"The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision. So write and draw and build and play and dance and live only as you can" -Niel Gaiman

Mrs. Tisha Graf

I grew up in Southern California and have called Arizona home for nearly nine years. I’ve always had a love for adventure and travel, which has given me the opportunity to visit and live in various states and countries.

Some of my greatest joys are music, creating art, and spending quality time with family and friends. I make it a priority to spend my free time outdoors—whether hiking in the mountains, relaxing by the river, or exploring new places. Nature’s beauty never fails to inspire me.

I also have a deep appreciation for unique architecture, world cultures, and the rich history they share— it reminds me that creativity and human expression are truly universal, connecting us all in powerful and meaningful ways.

My goal this year is to challenge both my students and myself to discover new abilities, talents, and skills. I’m excited to celebrate the unique creativity each student brings and to help them recognize and nurture their individual growth.

I truly believe that every child is special and filled with endless imagination—and I’m committed to helping them believe in that too. This year will be filled with discovery, growth, challenges, and moments of encouragement. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us!

AAS DIagnostic Medicine- West Coast University