Tell us a little bit about you and your background.

I’ve been an art educator since 2014 working with students aged Pre-K through adults in various settings. I first started teaching art in extracurricular settings before finding work in private and charter schools. I love working outside of traditional schools because our students really want to be here and are motivated and dedicated in their work. In my personal practice I love studying figures and exploring color. I love work that is expressive and emotional.

What attracted you to work at One River School?

Prior to working here, I’ve worked as a volunteer in community art and LGBTQ+ centers and it has always been a dream of mine to open my own community center that combines art education and advocacy work. Working at One River has been an amazing opportunity to see first-hand what goes into running a successful art program. I love how there is a focus on contemporary art and I think that’s a truly unique facet to our program. With our smaller class sizes I am able to really build personal relationships with my students. I love working in an environment that celebrates inclusivity and strives to be a safe space for people of all backgrounds.

How would you describe your role here?

As director I think my primary duty is to cultivate a culture in my school that focuses on building a strong community with our students and teachers. I want to create a space that values everyone who walks into our building and celebrates them. It’s important to me that our school is a safe space for everyone and is a place of belonging.

What do you think we do best at One River?

I think we do a great job of growing our students. Many of them walk into our space already a practiced artist who loves to create. We are able to take that potential and push them to the next level and develop a deeper understanding of how to create work with intention and focus. On the other hand we also have a significant amount of artists who have always wanted to try art and are just taking a class for the first time. Our program does a great job of differentiating at all levels and making art accessible to everyone. I also think the artists we choose to write curriculum have a wide range of skill sets and represent a large scope of what makes art “good.” Looking at art of all different perspectives and backgrounds gives you permission to create whatever you want. Our students are encouraged and coached to explore their creativity to make something outside of their comfort zone.

Is there a special One River moment that stands out for you?

I’ve had a lot of favorite moments at One River, I think this is a really special place. This past spring we hosted a pride event for our teen students called Gay Prom. They were allowed to dress however they wanted and invite whomever they wanted and it was a wonderful way to celebrate some of our graduating students. Watching a group of teens who a few years were strangers having so much fun with each other and celebrating each other was really magical.

What do you enjoy outside of One River?

I have two dogs, Birdy and Liza and I love going on walks with them. I love going to the beach and going on mini weekend adventures to new places. I love creating from painting and drawing to DIY home projects to cooking and baking.