I approach making and teaching art with an enthusiastic desire to communicate and express ideas through visual media. The foundation of my teaching philosophy is based in a belief in offering students a strong formal academic training that combines the theory and practice of art in a complementary way. I update, refine, and customize my curriculum for each class to ensure that my students receive a clear understanding of the content, expectations, and structure of the course. Through my teaching curriculum, students develop an understanding of the elements and principles of art, which will become tools in their learning and creating process. Composition and color theory are fundamental concepts that I ask students to address in their work while finding their own artistic voice. I encourage students to challenge existing artistic conventions to discover new approaches. I also believe in a heuristic approach where students discover solutions through meaningful experiences of trial and error, leading to artistic self-realization and success.
Demonstrations of materials and techniques are core elements in my approach to teaching. Group and individual critiques and discussions are included throughout the class to help students develop the critical assessment skills and vocabulary needed to evaluate their work. In each course I integrate examples of historical and contemporary art via lectures and PowerPoint presentations, urging students to understand that their own artwork exists within a larger social context of art making. In order to allow for the specific needs of each group and individual student, I remain flexible and encourage feedback throughout the class. Field trips to galleries, museums and artists studios are woven into the schedule to expand students’ awareness and understanding of contemporary art and art issues. As an internationally exhibiting professional artist, I am able to share my own experiences and insights and advise students about their educational and professional choices and opportunities.
Demonstrations of materials and techniques are core elements in my approach to teaching. Group and individual critiques and discussions are included throughout the class to help students develop the critical assessment skills and vocabulary needed to evaluate their work. In each course I integrate examples of historical and contemporary art via lectures and PowerPoint presentations, urging students to understand that their own artwork exists within a larger social context of art making. In order to allow for the specific needs of each group and individual student, I remain flexible and encourage feedback throughout the class. Field trips to galleries, museums and artists studios are woven into the schedule to expand students’ awareness and understanding of contemporary art and art issues. As an internationally exhibiting professional artist, I am able to share my own experiences and insights and advise students about their educational and professional choices and opportunities.