Fun Starters

Getting to know the human side.

Main Course

A quick deep dive into the day-to-day job.

Tell us about yourself and your job.

I am an artist living and working out of Long Beach, CA. I teach art workshops and classes at a printmaking studio in Santa Monica, CA, and at Loyola Marymount University during the academic school year. I have a studio in Long Beach where I base my personal practice out of.

How did you end up in your field? What do you like about it?

I have always loved art and art-making, and I knew I wanted to have a career in the fine arts world since I was very young. I began teaching right out of my undergraduate program through opportunities that sporadically presented themselves to me.

Having dedicated time to be creative through art-making is a very important element of life and extremely beneficial to mental health, which is part of why I am passionate about teaching it and exposing others to its benefits. A lot of people find art-making very intimidating, but what I love so much about teaching art is watching students find a passion and feel accomplished through exploring their creative side.

What does a typical morning look like on the job?

Typical mornings involve preparations for lectures and demonstrations for an upcoming art assignment. Making sure all the supplies are available and ready to be used, collecting example works to show to students, and being mentally prepared to teach.

Cool, then what does a typical afternoon look like?

Once the project/assignment has been presented, now the work transfers to the student, and my role becomes more based on supervision and guidance. There may be some students that need further instruction through one on one discussion and problem solving/ exploring. Others may just need to be supported through affirmation or having simple questions asked or having a technique revised. This tends to be the majority of my teaching.

What types of projects and meetings are you involved in?

Usually, my work consists of developing lessons/ assignments/ projects, practicing the techniques and developing my own artworks myself, demonstrating and lecturing, and then guiding students through the process. Meetings don't happen too often, but when they do they typically involve other art instructors and subjects discussed relate more to facilities, overall student performance, and how to improve teaching practices or sharing information relating to such.

Who do you collaborate with within meetings and projects?

I collaborate with my co-workers, being other instructors, or higher-ups, like the Chair of the art department or facilities technician. Mainly problem solving or sharing practices.

Dessert

Now for some juicy insights in the tea room.

What's the most challenging thing about your job?

The most challenging thing about my job is the lack of support from higher-ups and the risk of low registration numbers that jeopardize the approval of the course.

What are some characteristics that can help someone succeed in your role?

Having a strong will in motivation and perseverance. Also, being creative in problem-solving.

Any advice on how to stand out and get hired for those just starting off?

Be proactive in attending events, exhibitions, and workshops that relate to the art field you are interested in teaching in. Socialize and make connections with other artists in the field. And of course, make art as often as possible, to keep the momentum and show that you are active in your practice.

What's something that surprised you about your job?

The politics in academia.

What do you see your next step being?

In 5 years I hope to have graduated from a Masters in Fine Arts program and either be working in a printmaking studio or have started my own printmaking studio for community workshops and other artists use.

Any last thoughts, advice, or recommendations for someone who wants to do what you do?

Stay motivated and don't let inevitable failures or moments of slower-moving progress deter you from pushing forward.

Drinks

Chat more over coffee or tea?