“Teaching art is not just about technique; it’s about encouraging students to question and explore their own ideas.” – Kara Walker
As an educator at Stamps School of Art & Design at the University of Michigan, my teaching philosophy is centered on this belief, that art education should not only equip students with the technical abilities to create but also empower them to think deeply about their work, the world around them, and their place within it.
To do this, I emphasize the creative process over the final product. My goal is to create an environment where students feel free to explore various materials, techniques, and ideas without the fear of making mistakes. I encourage them to experiment, take risks, and push the boundaries of their creativity. I incorporate activities that allow for iterative development, where students can revisit and refine their ideas. This not only enhances their technical skills but also deepens their understanding of the concepts they are working with.
Student work featured below from Stamps Studio 2D, Sign & Symbol, Typography, Drawing Visualization, Making Images with Adobe Illustrator, Intro to Graphic Design and Intro to Watercolor for Non-Art Majors.
I also offer a YouTube channel of introductory watercolor tutorials for beginner and intermediate painters.