Michele Elliott

I like to create a “maker culture” inside the classroom. “A maker mindset is an approach to learning and problem-solving characterized by curiosity, creativity, and resilience.” My goal is to create a safe, respectful space for students to explore and experiment, see challenges as opportunities, to take risks and, embrace failure as an important part of the learning experience. Every person is a unique being with diverse talents, learning styles and ways that they express themselves. I want to nurture the belief that students can find and listen to their own voice, listen to and respect other voices, learn to solve problems individually, collectively in community and tap into their imaginations to create new and amazing things.

I consider myself a Mixed Media Maker. My formal degree is in Writing. For the last twenty plus years I have been making art, teaching art classes, taking art classes, weaving writing into art making and art making into Every Thing Else. Intuitive, tactile and curious, I love to build things with my hands and get dirty for art through sculpture, assemblage and collage. Throw in some recycled/repurposed objects and I am truly in my element. I find that teaching and taking art classes helps to keep my creative juices flowing. There’s so much to learn and experience from both sides of the collective table. When teaching, I consider myself a guide and helpmate to the other person’s creative expression. I am always humbled and inspired by what I learn from the folks that allow me to “teach” them. Each opportunity to connect with someone through the art making process can be a moment to reimagine the world.