Studio Practice

My studio practice is rooted in exploration, experimentation, and a deep fascination with the expressive potential of line and color. Working primarily in acrylic paint, I create layered abstract compositions through an intuitive process of spontaneous mark-making, transparent washes, and responsive decision-making. Each painting evolves organically, balancing moments of control and unpredictability as surfaces are built, obscured, excavated, and transformed over time.

The repetitive gestures, overlapping marks, and textured layers found throughout my work serve as visual records of movement, memory, and discovery. Rather than beginning with a predetermined image, I allow each painting to emerge through a process of observation and response, embracing uncertainty as an essential part of creation.

As both a practicing artist and educator, I view the studio as a place of continuous learning, a space where curiosity, risk-taking, and experimentation lead to new insights and creative possibilities.

My work reflects an ongoing investigation into rhythm, structure, surface, and the dynamic relationships that exist between order and chaos.

Teaching

With more than 27 years of experience as a visual arts educator, including two decades teaching AP Studio Art, I bring a unique combination of classroom expertise, educational leadership, and professional studio practice to every workshop and presentation. As a nationally recognized educator, practicing artist, and the Executive Director and Co-Creator of ArtConnectED, I am passionate about helping artists, educators, and students develop their creative potential.

Named the 2016–17 Illinois Art Education Association Art Educator of the Year, I regularly lead workshops, conference sessions, and professional learning experiences focused on creativity, artistic growth, innovative teaching practices, and portfolio development.

My engaging, hands-on approach encourages participants to think critically, take creative risks, and discover new possibilities within their artistic practice.

ArtConnectED

ArtConnectED believes the visual arts are a powerful force in culture and education, enriching the lives and endeavors of humankind.  Our mission is to advance art education for young people by providing art exhibition and education opportunities that celebrate students' artistic achievement, promote mastery and ingenuity in learning, and facilitate post-secondary opportunities.

Since our inception in 2013, Art ConnectED has facilitated over $500 MILLION in tuition scholarship offers to senior artists from colleges nationwide. These opportunities never existed before! Many of these recipients include students and parents who did not think college was a possibility for their family situation.

Started by a few teachers in 2013, the IHSAE has grown to include over 13 teacher directors and 20+ regular volunteers implementing programming that has impacted more than 150 high school visual art programs, and over 1,200 students annually. Demographics bridge city, suburban, public, and private schools across the Chicagoland area and all of Illinois.

Workshops

Through hands-on workshops and creative demonstrations, I help artists of all experience levels explore new ways of thinking, making, and developing their artistic voice. Drawing from my own studio practice as an abstract painter, these workshops encourage experimentation, risk-taking, and a deeper understanding of the creative process.

Sessions can be customized for schools, universities, art centers, museums, community organizations, and artist groups, offering participants practical techniques, fresh perspectives, and meaningful opportunities for artistic growth.

Workshop Topics May Include:

  • Abstract Painting & Creative Process

  • Mark-Making & Surface Development

  • Building a Sustainable Studio Practice

  • Portfolio Development

  • Creativity, Experimentation, and Artistic Risk-Taking

Whether working with emerging artists or experienced practitioners, my goal is to create engaging, inspiring experiences that encourage participants to expand their practice and discover new possibilities within their work.

Speaking

As an artist, educator, and founder of ArtConnectED, I am passionate about sharing ideas that inspire creativity, strengthen arts education, and support artistic growth. I regularly present to educators, artists, students, and organizations on topics ranging from contemporary art practices to curriculum innovation and professional development.

Whether delivering a keynote presentation, leading an interactive workshop, or facilitating curriculum planning, I bring practical experience, engaging content, and a genuine enthusiasm for helping others grow as creative thinkers and makers.

Available for:

  • Keynote Presentations

  • Conference Sessions

  • Professional Development Workshops

  • Curriculum Design & Program Development

  • Portfolio Development Workshops

Interested in booking a presentation or workshop? I'd love to discuss how I can create an engaging experience tailored to your audience.