In a world where so much of our daily lives happens through screens, I believe there is great value in creating opportunities for students to learn with their hands. Many art projects provide tactile experiences that cannot be replicated digitally. Whether students are sewing, weaving, sculpting, painting, or building, they are developing fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence through the physical act of making.
      As both an artist and educator, I aim to create learning experiences that encourage curiosity, experimentation, and persistence. I want my students to understand that creativity is not about producing perfect work, but about exploring ideas, embracing mistakes, and discovering new solutions through the artistic process. My own background in textile design has reinforced the importance of craftsmanship and thoughtful making, and I hope to instill an appreciation for these skills in my students. By engaging physcially with materials and creating something tangible, students develop a deeper understanding of themselves as capable, creative individuals.
       I believe our natural world is one of the greatest classrooms we have. Spending time outdoors encourages students to slow down, observe, ask questions, and develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them. I have found that some of the most meaningful learning happens when students step outside and engage directly with their environment and land. Whether they are noticing the textures and shapes of different plants, harvesting produce, or interacting with animals, these experiences inspire creativity in ways that photographs and lectures cannot.
       As an educator, I aim to incorporate nature into my teaching whenever possible. I am lucky to be able to spend a day every week with my current students at a local organic farm, guiding them through creative expression projects in nature. I have seen firsthand how outdoor experiences encourage curiosity, strengthen observation skills, and help students make meaningful connections between art, science, and environmental stewardship. I want students to understand that at the heart of being an artist is being a careful observer of the world. Much like scientists, we must ask questions, notice patterns, and use our discoveries to better understand and support our surroundings. By encouraging students to create from direct observation and personal experience, I hope to foster not only artistic growth, but also a lifelong appreciation for nature and the role creativity can play in understanding and caring for our world.