Teaching Philosophy
As an artist and an educator who grew up between Lithuania and Ireland, my teaching philosophy places great value on diverse cultural perspectives. I believe that understanding and respecting different worldviews and cultures is essential for nurturing creativity and compassion within a classroom. My own cultural background allows me to offer my students a unique viewpoint, especially those from immigrant families, fostering an environment where they feel seen and valued. I guide students with compassion, and respect, striving for my students to feel heard and understood.
I believe in democratic classrooms, therefore I offer my students certain creative freedoms within structured projects, I encourage them to experiment and grow, helping them find their own voice in the process, and to collaborate with each other in these creative projects creating a positive learning environment.
I view art as a deeply spiritual practice—an act that brings us closer to both divinity and our human purpose. For me, the ability to create is a sacred process, one that allows for self-expression, reflection, and connection to something greater than ourselves. This belief shapes my teaching philosophy, as I aim to inspire my students to see art not just as a skill to master but as a way to engage with the world, and to explore deeper questions about themselves and their surroundings.
