It's hard to believe that 6 months have past since my graduation. After 3 years working on my BFA, I went on to received my Masters of Arts in Studio work in December 2017. Within less than a month I was hired to teach a 2-D Design and Color Theory class at Cazenovia College. It is quite a difference being on the other side of the desk, and I loved the challenge of developing the curriculum and projects. I will have to admit I was not prepared for some of the differences.

As a non-traditional student, My goal was to show up, be prepared and do the projects to the best of my ability. I would spend hours working and reworking the drawing or the book or the print. I had forgotten what it was like to be 18-19, a freshman and what it felt like to get to a class at 8 AM. 16 bleary eyes students would file in and usually by 9:30 were working. I saw the lack of desire to paint or draw..... and I saw their tired distracted eyes. The theme of "but we won't have time to get it finished was common, and there were a few projects left unfinished. Still....some of the art that came out of that class was wonderful. It's not easy to teach design.... because design is actually a way of thinking and seeing..... so that has to go into the mix. I will be back in the classroom this fall if all goes according to plan. It will be a repeat with some revisions... (now that I know a bit more about what works and what doesn't) and I am thrilled to get this opportunity.

Meanwhile I am working on several commissions and preparing for my first art festival in September. I miss my big studio workspace on campus.... and I truly miss the interaction with the other students. It was a more than rewarding 5 years. BUT......I'll say .....Even though Oswego and the beautiful Lake Ontario offered me the time and space to grow and explore......... I won't miss driving an hour each way to get there.