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Being a teacher requires commitment, and it provides the opportunity to share what we find most interesting and meaningful. I wanted to become a teacher because of my passion for art. I have always enjoyed creating art, and I want to teach others what I’ve learned. I find teaching art fulfilling because it allows me to share the idea that a still life can be considered an invention. It’s your creation—an artwork that you shape into something visually appealing. I want my students to understand that art is an invention, expressed through emotions and creativity. The process of invention in art helps artists like me gather objects, form ideas, and transform them into meaningful subject matter. People often call me the “Jack of All Trades” when it comes to making decent still-life artwork.

When I start teaching, I want my students to truly grasp the essence of art. I want them to understand how to create, present, and respond to works of art. I plan to incorporate the elements of art into all my lesson plans, preparing my students for future careers in the art field if they choose that path. I want to encourage them to start drawing from what they know rather than solely what they see. That’s how I began my journey—by understanding how to draw based on my perception, which allowed me to connect my colors and ideas with my paintings. I want my students to feel free to experiment and not overthink the process of drawing. 

I remember my early challenges in art vividly. The thought of an apple being cut off from the drawing distracted me from the bigger issue: building a solid sketch based on the shapes of the objects and establishing a cohesive background. Overthinking, I found myself trailing my pencil aimlessly across the paper. I ended up creating something resembling a stack of smashed pancakes rather than fine porcelain china resting on a sturdy wooden table. Meanwhile, the upperclassmen were thoughtfully analyzing how the setup existed in 3D space, while I overcrowded my composition with every object on the table, resulting in a chaotic arrangement. 

For me, creating art through still life allows me to visualize my ideas and articulate the kind of art I want to produce. Still life can be an invaluable tool for artists, helping them craft beautiful masterpieces. Walking into a studio, sitting in front of a still life, and immersing myself in that environment is comforting. It allows me to focus and connect with the act of creation. I want my students to experience this same sense of connection and use art as a means of self-expression while finding inspiration from contemporary artists. 

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