Artist Statement

I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way— things I had no words for.”
-Georgia O’Keeffe

My work explores the intersection of self-expression, storytelling, and visual experimentation across a variety of mediums from traditional drawing and painting to graphic design and motion graphics. I am fascinated by the ways art allows us to explore our emotions, uncover our inner thoughts, and communicate ideas that often cannot be expressed through words alone.

For me, the creative process is as important as the finished piece. I approach art as a journey of discovery, where experimentation, reflection, and risk-taking are essential. Technical skill and mastery of materials are valuable tools, but the honesty and authenticity of expression are what give art its power to resonate with both the creator and the audience.

My experiences both as a student and a professional in motion-based graphic design have shaped a practice that embraces curiosity, inclusivity, and continuous learning. I am particularly inspired by the potential of art to foster connection and healing, having witnessed firsthand how creative expression can empower individuals to discover joy, confidence, and a sense of voice.

Through my work, I aim to create art that engages, challenges, and inspires, while inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. Ultimately, my practice is rooted in the belief that art is not a destination, but a continuous process of self-discovery and meaningful expression.

Teaching Philosophy

I grew up studying art and design at both public and private institutions, learning from teachers who used a wide range of methods and classroom approaches. From building a foundation in traditional drawing and painting to exploring graphic design and motion graphics, I have worked across various mediums to create art over many years. While technical knowledge and proficiency with materials or software are essential, what matters most is the creative process itself and the impact a finished work can have on both the artist and the audience.

As a visual learner, my teaching philosophy is grounded in student-centered learning and the belief that every student brings a unique perspective of seeing, thinking, and understanding the world. While a teacher should provide historical and cultural context, as well as guidance on tools and techniques, most classroom time should focus on letting students create their own work. Constructive feedback, delivered with encouragement, is equally important to help students reflect on and grow from their creations.

I believe that art is not defined by technical perfection, but by the honesty and authenticity of visual self-expression. It provides students with a unique way to understand themselves, explore their emotions, and experience personal growth. Whether through drawing, painting, or digital media, creative expression allows students to connect deeply with their thoughts and feelings while experimenting with new ideas. For this reason, art should be treated as a holistic practice, where the focus is not only on the final product but on the process of discovery itself. My role as a teacher is to guide students in exploring their creativity, finding their inner voice, and fostering an environment where they feel confident to take risks, express themselves freely, and develop their own artistic identity.

I embrace students from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, in my art classroom. In my sophomore year of art school, I took an elective called Art as a Source of Healing, where I worked with a 16-year-old boy with ADHD at a local children’s hospital. Together, we created art, shared thoughts, and explored how art can serve as a healing tool. While progress was gradual, I witnessed moments of joy and self-discovery, revealing the transformative power of art. I believe everyone should have access to art-making, and I strive to create a classroom that serves as a creative outlet by collaborating with special education teachers, administrators, and parents.

Finally, I strongly believe in lifelong learning, which is why I chose to return to school in my 40s to pursue an art teaching credential. I hope to bring both my experience as an art and design student and my professional background as a motion graphics designer into the classroom. My goal is to create an inclusive learning environment where students can explore different artistic mediums, develop their own style through hands-on creation, and ultimately discover their unique voice through the process of making art.