My art and education catalyst is described on my about page. I am an educator that has created a series of classes. One of my greatest influences is The Artists Way by Julia Cameron.
This book outlines 12 weeks of activities. At the end of each week is a list of tasks. #8 in Week 1 is Imaginary Lives. This task hit home with me. Refer to my about page for a longer description of why. In 2022, I had the opportunity to do a residency at the Cedarburg Cultural Center. This was the first time I got to teach an art class and the Imaginary Lives task served as the basis for this class. I was able to teach it again at the Hello Happiness Creativity Center. Below are some of the student works that were created in these classes.
The first course that has proven itself to be successful for a variety of students with different backgrounds and art experience levels is my abstract painting course.
Students choose their own landscape and painting style. We are influenced by the work of Hans Hoffmann and we cover some basics of art and design about color, shape and line as it relates to audience perception.
Students have an opportunity to think about their own art making in a new way. Using abstract art making techniques may encourage students to think outside their pre-determined boundaries.