

Pedagogy
My teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in the celebration of diversity and the exploration of creativity. In higher education, I strive to cultivate an environment where students are encouraged to embrace their unique perspectives while engaging in a dynamic exchange of ideas. Central to my approach is the recognition that each student brings a wealth of experiences, traditions, and artistic sensibilities to the classroom. I believe in fostering a supportive and inclusive community where these diverse voices are not only heard but valued. In my classroom, I view myself not only as an instructor but also as a facilitator of learning and discovery. I aim to create a collaborative environment where students are empowered to take ownership of their artistic journey. Through hands-on exploration and experimentation, I encourage students to push the boundaries of their creativity, challenge preconceived notions, and cultivate their unique artistic voice. Furthermore, I recognize the importance of equipping students with the technical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to thrive as artists in today's ever-evolving landscape. Whether it's mastering traditional techniques or embracing innovative digital tools, I am committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students to navigate the complexities of the contemporary art world. Beyond the classroom, I believe in the transformative power of community engagement and social responsibility. By collaborating with local organizations and engaging in meaningful dialogue with marginalized communities, we can harness the power of art as a catalyst for positive change. Through service-learning initiatives and outreach programs, students can apply their skills and creativity to address pressing social issues and effect tangible change in the world around them. In essence, my teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that art has the power to transcend boundaries, bridge cultures, and inspire meaningful connections. By fostering an environment of curiosity, exploration, and empathy, I strive to empower students to become compassionate, socially conscious artists who are equipped to make a lasting impact on the world.
COMA PROJECT: Chimera/Phoenix
In collaboration with my CSULA students from Intro to Drawing. We worked collectively on a mural within COMA(Closet of Modern Art) gallery. With an emphasis on the "rules" of drawing, we worked on this temporary mural using Nova Color paint, ink washes, charcoal, and other "non-traditional" mural mediums. CHIMERA spring 2023 and PHOENIX fall 2023 allowed me to explore what a collective artist practice looks like and develop my pedagogy focusing on collective liberation, learning, and group artistic development. Each project ran for two weeks leading up to its reception: only to be painted over a few days later. Although temporary, the knowledge, artistic development, and connections made are lifelong.





















