To play is to create, and to create is to live. This isn't a personal value or anything, this is just the truth. Play is a profound act of freedom, using muse and method, to stray from rule and bound, and build a space valuing risk-taking. It is my belief that play, comfortability, and creativity are all intertwined, as well as things that become slowly depreciated as we age. My bodies of work combine glass, ceramic, and wood craft practices with my pedagogy as an art educator to investigate the themes of childhood nostalgia, memory, the practice of play, intentionality within the body, growth, and comfortability and freedom in creativity. In my work, I seek to celebrate the spontaneity and liberation of play.

As an art educator, my overarching objectives are multifaceted. I aim for my students to develop a deep understanding of diverse art history, rooted in truth and inclusivity. I believe it's crucial for them to appreciate the interconnectedness of fine art, design, and craft, while also recognizing the underrepresented voices and histories within these fields. My goal is to create an environment where the term "failure" is reframed as an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding, fostering a culture of resilience and exploration. Central to my teaching philosophy is the creation of a safe and nurturing space for self-expression. I believe in curating an environment where students feel comfortable exploring their artistic voices, embracing both successes and setbacks as part of their creative journey. Drawing inspiration from my own experiences and influences, I strive to cultivate personal connections and foster a sense of community within the classroom. I am committed to promoting a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to art education. I aim to shift the language of learning towards an asset-based pedagogy, highlighting the strength that diversity brings to our artistic endeavors. Through a wide range of teachings spanning different mediums, cultures, and historical contexts, I seek to empower students to explore their identities and broaden their perspectives.

Improvement and learning are ongoing processes that evolve with time and experience. I remain open to refining my teaching strategies, embracing improvisation, and staying attuned to the needs of my students and the ever-changing landscape of education and the world. My teaching practice is grounded in the belief that art education should not only impart technical skills and historical knowledge but also nurture a sense of curiosity, resilience, and empathy that extends far beyond the classroom walls. Art is an everlasting practice that is vital to humanity, the more conscious we are as art educators, the more that we continuously grow and learn and adapt, the better understanding and passion of the children that are our future.

Philosophy of Education; Statement of Praxis