Teaching Philosophy 

The primary objective in every class I teach—whether for beginning or advanced students—is to cultivate an inclusive and constructive learning environment that supports artistic growth. I aim to balance the development of technical proficiency with the encouragement of conceptual exploration. My teaching approach emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of art making, integrating historical context, conceptual implications, and contemporary applications relevant to each technique or process.

While technical mastery is essential, I place equal value on experimentation within print media. Processes such as digital and photomechanical methods, flocking, gold leaf, sewing, and collage are incorporated into all of my classes, regardless of the primary technique being taught. Students are also encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary approaches, exploring how printmaking intersects with ceramics, sculpture, installation, performance, and other experiential art forms. Through experience, I have found that this approach gives students both confidence and creative freedom, equipping them with the skills needed to follow wherever their imagination leads.

The development of a personal visual language is a central goal for my students. To support this, I integrate critique practices and reflective writing assignments that prompt students to evaluate their own creative processes. These structured opportunities for reflection help them grow as independent thinkers and makers.

My goal is to challenge students while maintaining a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all, regardless of their background or experience. Over my 29+ years of teaching, I have had the privilege of mentoring students from diverse backgrounds, an experience that has enriched my growth as an artist, educator, and individual. My commitment to inclusivity is woven into every aspect of my teaching—from how I engage with students, to the visiting artists I invite, to the work I present in class. I take great care to introduce students to a broad and diverse range of artists, both historical and contemporary, representing a wide array of cultures, regions, and conceptual perspectives.

Mentorship is essential as students build their unique visual identities. My role is to guide them in discovering their own artistic voices, not to direct them toward any predetermined aesthetic. Assignments are intentionally open-ended, with countless possible solutions, encouraging students to push their creative boundaries. Critical evaluation is a key component of this process and should serve as a productive learning experience for both students and instructor. I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts openly and honestly, an atmosphere that is essential for cultivating a discerning and thoughtful artistic eye.

Print Area Visiting Artists / Guest Lecturers Hosted Since 2000:

Lynwood Kreneck, Lloyd Menard, Kathryn Polk, Tom Huck (twice), Bonnie Stahlecker (twice), Aaron S. Coleman, Michael Barnes, Jenny Schmid, Miguel Aragon, Jon Goebel, Art Werger, Mark Sisson, Ericka Walker, Emily Arthur, Naima Lowe, Richard Zimmerman, Jenny Robinson, Karen Kunc, Warrington Colescott, Minna Resnick, Althea Murphy-Price and Marwin Begaye.

 List of Courses Taught:

AM 1110: Arts Experiences

AM 3011, 3021, and 3031: Arts Practicum I, II, and III

AM 4613, 4623: Arts Internship I, II

ART 1013: Intro to Studio Arts (for non-art majors)

ART 1023: Intro to Etching (for non-art majors)

ART 1103: Drawing I

ART 2023: Drawing II

ART 2123: Printmaking I (Block I)

ART 2863: Monster Mash (Block 1; Digital collage class, centered on the theme of the monstrous)

ART 3053: Advanced Drawing

ART 3063/4063/6063/7063: Printmaking Studio; specialized courses in Lithography, Intaglio, Serigraphy, Relief, including photographic processes and mixed media applications.

ART 4863: Making Monsters (Advanced digital collage class, centered on the theme of the monstrous)

ART 4903: Corporate Internship / Internship

AM/ART 4973: Senior Seminar (Senior Project)

ART 4993/7993: Independent Study; projects have been in print media, book arts, sculpture, fiber, ceramics and drawing

ART 5973/7973 Professionalism in the Arts

ART 7983: Research and Thesis

AS 1001: Speaking Visually (Freshman Orientation Course)