Becoming an Art Educator

I have always loved art and art history. My experience as an art major at the University of Iowa offered me a deeper understanding and knowledge of a variety of materials and methods that can be used for self-expression.

After I graduated with my BFA from the University of Iowa, I worked as a freelance artist in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. I also began working as a docent at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the Grant Wood Studio. I enjoyed these opportunities very much and soon began teaching art workshops at the Grant Wood Studio and assisting the art educator at the museum.

I also became involved with the Picture Presenter program at Pierce Elementary School. This program involves presenting an image and an artist to children and discussing their thoughts and reactions to the work. In addition, I began to teach art enrichment after school and serve as the enrichment co-chair for Pierce. All of these experiences led me to where I have chosen to be today, in the art classroom working with children and young adults, and bringing my passion for the art into their lives.

There have been many challenges to returning to college after beginning a family but I am glad that I have faced these challenges and had the opportunity to experience some of my college career as a non-traditional student. I am enjoying the experience of student teaching and I have found that there are many elements to be learned about the art and process of becoming an organized and efficient art educator.