as a teacher
I have taught art for over twenty five years at the University, college and High School levels. I am a Fulbright Memorial Fund Scholar and have also received awards from the National Art Education Association and the Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation as well as several residencies and fellowships. I recently recieved an award from PBS and the Henry Ford Foundation for Innovation in the classroom. I also was award the Sorenson Legacy Award for Excellence in Art Education in 2013.
I believe that real, deep and lasting understanding is a product of critical thinking is not taught but needs to be encultured and nurtured over time within a hospitable environment. I attempt to create such a climate in my classroom and within my art courses. I believe that art has potential to expand and deepen human understanding. The arts provide the greatest avenue for allowing exploration and expansion of the mind in education. Because of this, I am as interested in students being aware of their own creative process as I am in the end product of this personal journey.