Over 20 years of teaching and my lifetime as a student have taught me

that students are most successful when they become their own “teachers.” When given the tools to be expressive and the encouragement to be risk-takers, they become resourceful and creative thinkers whose “tools” and “techniques” become a means to an end, not an end in themselves.

I recognize there are many avenues to artistic perception and creativity. Each student learns in a very individual way. A “tennis match” between student and teacher ultimately brings about our best rewards. In this spirit, I have discovered that the inner joy of “doing” is the best motivator and that “fun” helps abolish the inner critical voice that inhibits ideas.

It is important to me that my students be confident and prepared. This, along with the ability to be flexible and expressive, has allowed my students to become successful and marketable. 

 - inspired by Rhonda Carlson