from Deer Path Middle School — Lake Forest, Illinois

View all teachers

Biography

Inspiration started at a young age, growing up with a gardening family and a lake nearby. The colors and beauty were all around me, and it was inevitable that I would become a creator, a lover of life, and an artist. Many of those childhood memories continue to find their way into my work today.
As I explored all forms of art over the years, that creative path naturally led me to pursue a career in art. I studied both studio art and art education at ISU, and after graduating, I stepped into the role that has truly shaped my purpose in life: an Art Educator. Every day, I get to teach all of my favorite artists.
For me, teaching art isn’t just about techniques—it’s about giving students their own voice. A creative voice that tells stories, reflects their viewpoints, and expresses emotions they feel while exploring media. I believe art is a vital tool for connecting with others and exploring identity. My students’ ideas never cease to amaze me.
Beyond the classroom, I continue my personal art practice, am an active member of art communities, and volunteer as much as I can. I’m currently working on The Secret Series of artwork and children’s books. This series collages personal relics onto paintings—I give artifacts another life, to not be thrown away or forgotten, but to be treasured and displayed for all to see on my canvases.

Personal Art Gallery