Art is big, encompassing many styles, mediums, genres, and purposes. My goal as an instructor is both to expose students to a wide range of artistic approaches and to help them connect with their own individual creativity.

In my classroom, I balance student choice with guided instruction and experience-based learning. Students explore and experiment in choice lead projects. While also building skills through completing teacher lead studies and exercises. This approach helps students develop confidence and independence.

I teach to skill level rather than age by offering modification options to my lessons. Recognizing that students come with different experiences, abilities, and interests, I strive to meet each student where they are. My goal is to provide a respectful and supportive environment where students feel comfortable taking creative risks.

I believe art is especially valuable in today’s classrooms. It supports student engagement and retention while helping develop critical thinking skills. Just as importantly, it offers hands-on, non-computer-based learning experiences where students can directly interact with materials, solve problems, and think creatively in tangible ways.

Ultimately, I see my role as both a guide and facilitator—someone who provides structure, tools, and encouragement while helping students develop their own voice and direction as artists.