Tell us a little bit about you and your background.

I have a BFA from Ohio Wesleyan University and a Masters in Art Education from Kean University.  Before landing at the One River School, I taught Pre-K through High School Art in both public and private schools.  After taking an early retirement in 2017, I really missed being in the classroom, and am so grateful to be able to extend my career at the One River School!

What attracted you to work at One River School?

By far, the diversity of the curriculum and the opportunity to work with colleagues who shared my passion for Art. I have had the privilege of getting to know amazing professionals who are always willing to share their knowledge, and have truly inspired me to become a better educator.

How would you describe what it is like to teach the adult program here?

Teaching the adult program is very rewarding  because the time spent in the studio is so precious to them. This is their ME time.  Every week they enter the room ready to learn and grow as artists. Adult students seamlessly find common interests whether they are experienced artists or here to create art for the first time.  The “grown ups” are always so supportive of one another and they connect by sharing a special camaraderie that is unique to each class.

What has been your favorite project to teach to our adults and why?

One of my favorite projects was inspired by the artist, Catherine Kehoe.  She uses a palette knife to apply paint in thick, bold strokes.  Most of my students had not painted with a palette knife before, so this project allowed them to try a new technique and use the paint expressively. The results were impressive.

The photo of the Girl By the Water is a student example of this project.

Is there a special One River moment with your adult students that stands out for you?

One of my students was a retired Art Instructor who wanted to take the Intro to Adult Shuffle class with his daughter.  When his daughter was no longer able to join her father for the class, his second daughter jumped right in! It was such a wonderful dynamic to have a father-daughter team together. They brought us so much joy sharing stories while they created beautiful art, side by side.

What do you enjoy outside of One River?

I am in my happy place if I am making art. I enjoy photography, designing unique jewelry pieces, and creating one of a kind sculptures using clay, wood, metal, packing tape and mixed media.  Also at the top of the list are volunteering, traveling and being together with family and friends.  On a weather friendly day, you will find me hiking, kayaking, or taking a trip to visit to the zoo.