As a folk musician, my emphasis is on American folk music through interactive songs and activities, dulcimer kit building, simplified song writing, and learning to play the dulcimer or folk harp, when appropriate. As a music therapist, I can quickly access and adapt to all ranges of disabilities and choose activities and instruments for success. I enjoy all settings, and can create a program specifically based on client or student goals.
I involve everyone in creating their own music using synthesizers and other digital music equipment. It's very hands-on with the possibility of ending up with a CD of your own compositions! Easter Seal young adults did it last summer at camp KYSOC . Activities vary according to group size. I have done electronic music with special populations for over 25 years.
My residencies use 2 and 3-D mediums, creative movement,
music, and computer presentations. The goal of my
residencies is to create a classroom environment in which students
feel relaxed, confident, creative and cooperative. I focus on a theme
of interest to students, usually one they choose themselves. Recent themes
have included; Myths of India; Native American Weaving; Drawing
People and Art of Africa. I have extensive experience in teaching and
working with special needs populations.
My residencies aim to encourage creative thinking and problem solving and increase self-esteem, listening skills and positive group communication. Environmental awareness is enhanced by using items found in nature, such as driftwood sticks, gourds, and feathers. My enthusiasm toward an experiential approach to individual creativity is enhanced by adapting cultural emblems from diverse societies around the globe. I have masters degrees in both fine arts and expressive arts therapy, and I am a recognized bead artist.
I provide active, experiential activities designed to be fun and accessible for all levels of participants. We make paintings with rolling pins, sculptures by filling balloons with plaster, and magical trees with wildly-colored fabrics. It's all fun! I have a Masters in Fine Arts from the University of Cincinnati and I've worked for 15 years with children of all ages through the local schools, universities, community groups, Kentucky Arts Council, and VSA Kentucky.
My philosophy about art is that there is no mystery surrounding it. Everyone is completely talented to create works of expression, commentary and observation. My teaching goal is simple: Exposure to various art communication styles, instruction in applications, and encouragement to create and enjoy. My background includes a Masters in painting from San Francisco State University, 20 years as a professional artist, 15 years of teaching, and a partnership in a video production company.
I am committed to the power of the arts for meaningful expression. I love creating murals with young people that express important messages for their community. Some of the media I work with are painting, mural making, clay, and print making. I have a BA in Studio Art from Greenville College and my teaching experiences include a middle school in Hong Kong, juvenile jails, youth arts organizations, elementary schools and community centers.
As a teaching artist, I encourage participation and expression by offering a variety of projects, techniques and media. I work with teachers to develop residencies that are accessible and developmentally appropriate, and can include drawing, painting, murals, collage or puppetry with the goal of helping each student experience creativity through hands-on art processes. I have taught students of all ages and abilities through grants with the Kentucky Arts Council and other programs since 1995.
The Kentucky Arts Council, a state agency in the Commerce Cabinet, provides operational support funding for VSA Kentucky with state tax dollars and federal funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.
