About
As a certified Connecticut art instructor since 2009, I offer anchor standard academic classes in art. My experience in the class room has given me the opportunity to work with diverse groups of learners and accommodate accordingly to their needs. I’m patient and understanding of how we all learn at our own pace, therefore, students feel at ease in my classes. My first passion is art and my second is teaching art, so you can be sure to enjoy my classes and leave with work you can be proud of!
Please see my website: Ucreateart.net. Or follow me on Instagram and Facebook at Ucreateart
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Christy
Michele G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like getting to know a little bit about my student first, this allows me to better understand their learning style. It’s also important to know what the students’ expectations are, what they’d like to accomplish with their art lesson. Then I can customize the learning experience for my student. In a group setting the process is the same, so I like to keep my groups small, no more then 10 in the studio.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Teaching art is my second career. I have a BA in fine arts and Fashion from Parsons School of Design, and worked in the fashion industry for 10 years as a designer and technical designer before receiving my Masters in Art Education at Southern University. I’ve been a high school studio art teacher since 2009! I currently work at Platt Technical High School.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I have a set price per hour for first time students wanting to learn how to paint which includes the use of studio brushes and paint with a 12x12 canvas/ or specialized paper if working with watercolor. Price per hour $45.00 (in-studio pricing) $38 (virtual pricing)
If students want to work with a larger canvas price will increase according to size.
For drawing and fiber classes ( knitting, crochet and needle/wet felting, and weaving), price will vary According to project.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching knitting and crochet classes, since my area of expertise in fashion is knits, it was a no brainer! I absolutely love to work with wool! I ended up having a lot of teachers in my classes and they encouraged me. I was having twins at the time, so commuting into the city was getting hard, that’s when decided to Go back to school for my masters and the rest is history!!! I love my job now, best move I’ve ever made with My career!
What types of students have you worked with?
I’ve worked with diverse learning abilities from ages 5 to 80!!!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently one of my students had her work chosen for our big end of the year district art show at Fairfield University. I actually drove her to the show, and she was amazed of how “fancy” it was with the fruit water and little appetizers. But best of all was her face when she saw her watercolor painting on display, she was so proud of herself and so excited that I had to hold back tears. I was so proud and happy for her. I know that she will feel confident enough now to continue making art even without my help and that’s what makes me the happiest.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The best advice I can give is that it’s important to meet the teacher or talk on the phone first to make sure your expectations will be met. Be very clear on what you’d like to accomplish so that the teacher can guide you in that direction.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should ask about the teacher's experience with the specific medium that they want to learn. You want to make sure the teacher is proficient enough to guide you through the process.