Teaching Philosophy

I believe that my teaching philosophy is driven by my passion, excitement and knowledge about the arts. I have an imaginative and creative self that is tempered by my ability to guide and instruct others in the arts. I feel I am able to bring out the potential artist in all my students as I strongly encourage them to form a personal connection with their work and allow it to become a part of their life. 

As an instructor, I help my students in their journey to create a personal expression within their body of artwork.  I guide them along the way using classroom demonstrations, art history lectures, and through honest critical feedback.  Challenging a student’s thinking about their work is important because it promotes artistic development, helps them evolve at a faster pace, and encourages them to improve on their individual art work.  This also keeps the classroom interesting and exciting.

For my introductory classes, I start by teaching the fundamentals of art.  My students learn techniques, skills, and technical knowledge about a wide range of materials.  An understanding of art history and contemporary art is another important part of my classroom instruction.  Combined, this gives my students a strong foundation to develop their own style.  

I became a teacher because I believe that creating art and having an outlet for artistic expression is an important part of life.  It is through art that we can share and give each other some of our greatest gifts, a part of ourselves.  Ultimately, I want my students to have at least in part, the same passion, excitement and knowledge about art that I have.