Children are inherently artistic. The trick is having them think like artists.

I am happiest when connecting a student with their artistic self. For me, being creative unlocks a part that can’t be accessed in any other way. Harnessing one’s own imagination is not only empowering and fun but encourages original problem-solving methods. Creators are ready to explore, tackle unseeable hurdles and embrace discovery. That means teaching not only creativity, but observation, self-expression, focus, discipline, perseverance, collaboration, risk-taking, receptivity, and confidence. That’s a tall order but I believe art offers all of that and I am delighted to lead the way.

My classroom is the students’ studio space. It’s a positive learning environment where they feel welcome, comfortable, and safe. There they can fumble, try, experiment, excel, learn from themselves, their peers, and me. My lessons are about showing a child how to be creative, how to express their ideas and develop critical thinking and it bringing that creative mindset confidently forward. I will also focus on the history that is behind the art and who is currently making it. That and regularly sharing of students’ art values variety, respect, and open-mindedness. This is part of becoming a member of the art world.

There is a way in any art project for a student to have an interest. In order to do that I aim to find what hooks them by paying attention to the student’s individual personality and passions. I’ll happily guide them in figuring it out. There is a lot of pride for a child who perseveres on their own creation and I could not be more honored in getting them there.