“My goal is to foster and inspire students who are passionate and curious lifelong learners. The visual communication, creative problem solving and aesthetic skills students learn in my classroom are valuable tools that will serve them far into the future, as they work to create a positive impact on the world.”

Title

Assistant Professor of Art

Educational Background

• M.F.A, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
• B.S., Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, IN

Year Joined Franklin

2020

Expertise

Visual Communication Design, Illustration, New Media Art including Animation and Digital Art.

Does the department provide hands-on or practical experiences in and outside of the classroom?

The department of art offers classes in which students will experience project-based assignments and hands-on learning that are directly related to real-world challenges. Whenever possible, we incorporate service-learning projects for local organizations and internship opportunities. By integrating these artistic practices into our curriculum students have an opportunity to walk away with professional pieces that build impressive portfolios and showcase their skills.

As an art major will I have employment opportunities after graduation?

The department’s curriculum goes beyond just the field-specific knowledge and skills students will use in the real world. We also focus on fostering well rounded professionals who can demonstrate the capacity to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems — unique skills that will translate to a wide range of careers.

Professional Experience

Though I am teaching full time, I continue to design and illustrate as an industry professional. Select illustration and design publications include the Irvington Folk Festival, 3X3 Magazine, University of Cincinnati, Ohio Festival of the Short Story, Museum of the Earth, Naropa University, St. Anthony Messenger, Salt Hill Literary Journal, Slope Editions and National Educational Services.

Illustrator and Designer, Blue Mountain Arts/SPS Studios, Boulder, CO 2006-08

Illustrator and Designer, The Herald-Times, Bloomington, IN 1998-2000

Exhibitions, Honors and Awards

• Hoosier Women in Art: My Generation, (Juried Exhibition), May 2020
• Mural on loan as part of the University of Indianapolis Permanent Art Collection, 2019
• Juror, Marian University Department of Art & Design Student Exhibition, Indianapolis, IN, February 2019
• Print Magazine Regional Design Award, January 2017
• Department of Art and Design Faculty Exhibition, Christel DeHaan Gallery University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, January 2019, November 2016 – 2014
• H2O Exhibition, Meridian Street Gallery (Juried Exhibition), Indianapolis IN, April 2016
• Juror, Talbot Street Art Fair, Indianapolis, IN, June 2015
• Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators Portfolio Showcase (Juried Exhibit) SCBWI Summer Conference, Hyatt Regency, Los Angeles, CA, August 2013

In my spare time…

When I’m not creating art, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching old movies, traveling (especially if it involves a trip to the ocean) and being outdoor — hiking, kayaking, bike riding, playing badminton and gardening.