A resilient, positive, calm, and committed art instructor who is able to maximize a pupil's artistic achievements. Experienced in teaching "at-risk" youth with creative lesson plans, using traditional and contemporary methods and technologies. Professional Artist for over twenty years with multiple exhibitions and awards.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Artist
Self Employed
01.2004 - Current
I have been a professional artist for over twenty years
I have been involved in solo and group exhibitions all over the world (Chicago, New York, Miami, Dayton, Warsaw, Rotterdam etc.)
Designed custom artwork for clients, meeting their creative vision and ensuring satisfaction with the final product.
Sold original art pieces through online platforms, gallery exhibitions, and direct customer interactions, generating consistent revenue streams while maintaining an active artist presence within the community.
Meditation Teacher/Monk
Chicago Ratna Shri Sangha
04.2019 - 03.2024
After a long and successful career as an artist I decided to ordain as a Buddhist monk and began a full time practice of study, contemplation, and meditation.
After three years I was asked to give basic instructions on meditation at the temple which I attended and volunteered for over 17 years.
This year I returned to lay life, but still lead weekly meditations
Art Teacher
Prologue Early College High School
08.2017 - 06.2018
Managed a diverse range of learners, adapting lesson plans to accommodate different abilities and interests.
Implemented effective classroom management strategies, maintaining discipline while fostering creativity and individuality in student work.
Established a positive and inclusive classroom environment that encouraged open communication and collaboration among students.
Communicated effectively with parents about their child''s progress in the arts program, addressing any concerns or suggestions for improvement as needed.
Developed students'' artistic skills by providing personalized feedback and guidance
Organized school-wide art exhibits showcasing student talent and promoting the importance of visual arts in education.
Assessed student progress regularly through formal evaluations, informal observations, and one-on-one conferences, ensuring each learner''s growth was accurately documented.
Enhanced learning with field trips to galleries and museums, providing real-world insights into art industry.
Education
B.A. in Fine Arts - Art History And Painting
Northeastern Illinois University
Chicago
2017
Skills
Lesson planning for individual students and entire classrooms
Identifying potential of students
Oil and acrylic painting
Digital illustration
Traditional drawing
2D and 3D design
Client Relationships
Commission requests
Awards
Officially recognized by the Illinois House of Representatives for my contribution to the arts and volunteer work in the 99th session (2016)
Granted the merit scholarship at Northeastern Illinois University (2016)
Nominated by the Northwest Art Connection as one of the Artists You Should Know (2015)
Won the Harwood Heights Vehicle sticker design (1993)