From 2021 to 2024 I was the art instructor at the Montessori Center of Our Lady in Livonia, MI. I taught art to a variety of students ranging from preschool to 2nd grade and ran two summer camp programs for those students. I learned many things from my time at MCOL, including the importance of building authentic connections with students and witnessing the creativity of young minds. It is a source of inspiration for me, and I often introduce open-ended art projects that allow my students to explore their imagination freely. During my time in this role I created unique lesson plans to teach both art history and traditional art skills to the young students, while allowing them to explore their creativity through open ended projects. I also maintained a positive learning environment for my students, allowing a safe space for learning and artistic development.
Presenting a lesson during summer camp 2024.
A preschool student exploring a watercolor and crayon painting technique.
Summer camp students observing our caterpillar habitat.
Example artwork from a mixed media jungle animal project, inspired by Henri Rousseau.
Community collage rainbow project completed by preschool and kindergartners in 2022.
2024 Art Show hallway display, Preschool-2nd Grade.
Second graders creating a winter woodland themed painting with tempera paint.
Garden rocks painted by elementary students for a community project.
A first grade elementary student drawing leaves from observation.
‘All Are Welcome’ Window Mural, 2022- Montessori Center of Our Lady
During the summer of 2022 I was commissioned to paint a window mural at MCOL to support the equity and inclusive values at the school. The mural was inspired by the book ‘All Are Welcome’ by Alexandra Penfold. I included diverse students in my concept that depicts students exploring nature, complete with whimsical animals and flowers.
