Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always loved kids and art, to combine the two seemed a natural fit. I simply come alive around children, who are so playful and fun, that they naturally bring out that side in me. When I am in this open and receptive state of flow, in my creative process, I am happier and more energetic, and can get others excited about the arts. I consider my teaching, to be an extension of my own artistic process. I believe art is what makes the world go round and will help bring about peace.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I orchestrated this school wide "Community Groups" project for Earth Day, in which the entire school community gathered in a circle around our two trees on the schoolyard. Beforehand, kids in the classroom used the cyanotype (sun print) paper I pre-cut into circles, to place nature bits and other objects on top of, then carried them out to the school yard where there was a kiddie pool of water to stop the sun printing process. A circle of spoken wishes for the earth ensued. It was magical.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I'd use it to help fund an art studio, a place of personal growth in a natural setting, that could also benefit the local community with workshops and events that focus on my Eco Art Education philosophies. Inspired by artist residencies I've attended, I have witnessed the transformative power of artists coming together in creative collaboration. I would love to open up some type of artist residency with gallery space there in the future. This would help plant the seed to grow this vision.