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Education & Background:

 

I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The University of Houston (Cum Laude).

Major: Interior Design. Minor: Architecture.

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I have been working in the field of applied arts for 17+ years as an Interior Designer (RID TX#11173),

in various segments of the design industry (both commercial and residential).

I am currently employed in the education sector at Arcadis.

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Throughout my career I have continuously produced as a freelance artist for others, and for my own joys. 

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In addition to interior design and art, I have a heart for teaching and mentorship.

A few years ago I paused my focus on design to enter into professional teaching.

I obtained my certification in Art (Early Childhood - 12th Grade), and began

part-time at a small private school, until obtaining my first full-time position teaching K-5 Art.

I was placed at a Title 1 elementary school in Spring Branch ISD.

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The experience brought me face-to-face with the harsh realities of

our public school system, including not only our harmful education models,

but our harmful education environments. 

My classroom had zero windows,

and I was forced to keep my door closed all day due to security rules.

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I spent my day in a box.

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Behaviors were often intense and the volume inside of the room became painfully loud.

I was physically isolated all day from all peers and mentors.

I felt alone.

Years later, as I continue to reflect upon experience, one major takeaway shines:

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Our physical environments matter!

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A room has the ability to deeply impact our psychological and physical health.

I poured my heart and soul into this role for a year and half trying to make it work, and I thought it would be

my new home, but the sheer stress of the environment forced me out. It was more than my

nervous system could tolerate. I either had to resign, or get sick. It was with great humility that

I accepted defeat at the hands of the public school system.

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I returned to design with unexpected, and sobering new knowledge of

the impact a space can have on our well-being.
 

Now more than ever, it is my passion and mission to create safe and

emotionally supportive environments for all people, in all places. 

My latest interest is the field of Neuroaesthetics,

where science meets art and design.

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Although I do not fit the public teaching model, my heart for teaching remains

and I stay open to unique opportunities that may arise in the future.

I still periodically substitute teach art to children at Cy-Fair Music & Arts School

and offer private at-home art sessions to children, seniors,

and anyone who finds relief from their pain through art.

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I believe that art, education and design, when done well, can change the world.

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In addition to my experience in the art and education realms,

I was a Court Appointed Child Advocate for 7 years in Harris County, with training and continuing education.

During that time I acquired a huge amount of knowledge about child welfare.

Many of those lessons, which I still carry with me today, have greatly influenced my compassions as a guide and caregiver. 

 

I should also mention that I have a kiddo of my own, who never ceases to teach ME new things...

and that is the ultimate relationship which will continuously grow me as a designer, teacher...and human  :)

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My goal is to increase the sense of well-being that people have in the world,

one space at time, through thoughtful education, art and design.