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How I Became an Artist

December 20th, 2018

How I Became an Artist

Growing up, I attended Catholic elementary and high school where the emphasis was strictly academic (no art classes). As a result, when I started at university and had to declare a major, I went with what I was good at in high school. I began in chemistry (not very interesting), then math (too tedious), and finally settled on elementary education (I love children, so this was a good fit). It wasn’t until the end of my Junior year at Howard that I decided to take a painting course to fulfill my fine arts requirement. Immediately, I knew I had found my vocation and my advocation. I literally got on my knees in thankful prayer. Up until then, like most folks, I had not identified my passion. I was truly grateful for locating the path by which I could express and explore who I am, how I feel, what I perceive, and where I fit into the larger world around me.

As for my career, I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Art Education from Howard University. I taught in the Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) for almost 20 years before returning to school to earn a Master of Science in Education from Bank Street College of Education with Parsons School of Design in 1993. Afterward, I became Curriculum and Staff Development Specialist for Fine Arts and Technology in the Alexandria City Public Schools. Once again, I returned to school and attended New York University. I was awarded my doctorate in Art in 1997. After, I accepted a position in the Art Department at Central Connecticut State University where I taught and, eventually, served as chairperson of the Department from 2006-2012. I am currently a Professor of Art Emeritus at CCSU and teach 2 courses in photography there online.