What will you teach: 

Would you like to learn how to draw? If yes, then join me in my art class! 

I specialize in teaching students the ability to observe the world in terms of 5 basic elements of shape. Just like musicians learn notes to play an instrument, a student learning to draw should first be given some basic tools to be able to draw what they observe. 
You will quickly discover that drawing is something anyone can learn with instruction and practice. 
I provide a non-competitive, non-judgmental art space, where creativity is nourished and expression is valued. 
Our subject matter will cover nature, animals, fantasy and more! You will not only learn how to draw, but also how to use different art materials to complete your art pieces. 
My classes will be for students from Kindergarten through High School, from beginner to advanced. Art materials used: Colored pencil, marker, watercolor, soft pastel, oil pastel and graphite.

Would you like to learn how to create in 3-D? If yes, then join me in my art class!

From creating a hand puppet to building a robot using recycled materials, we will have fun exploring the world of sculpture. Creativity is endless in both of these classes! I will guide students through the step by step process and share some great tips and tricks. 

A little about me:

I was born and raised in Germany where I graduated college with a teaching degree. I am a specialized teacher for Fine Arts and Technical Subjects (wood shop, metal shop etc.) I am an artist and art educator with over 25 years of teaching experience. I have an extensive background working with students of all age groups up to adults. I am highly trained in a wide array of artistic mediums and techniques. I have worked for different school districts with my last assignment at an International IB School in California. For 11 years I owned and operated a successful art school. As I am a firm believer that learning never stops, I have to say, that most of my experience comes from  lots of continued education, life, and the lessons I learned from all of my former students! 

My philosophy on teaching art:

The very first question I ask my older students at the beginning of every school year, “Is art important?” I want my students to think about what place art and art education has in their lives. Is art just the picture on the wall, or is it an experience? What would the world look like without it? 
Art education is so much more than just a finished picture or painting on a wall. The process one must go through to end up with a finished art piece is the most important part of creativity. It pushes students to think outside the box, to be flexible, to plan, to solve problems, to do research and be open minded. 
I am a firm believer that students need a solid foundation on which to build their art education. I believe in structured creativity, where students are taught practical art skills, but have all the space they need to be independently creative. 
In my art class I give students the space to walk through the creative process without judgment. I want students to become independent of my instruction. The day a student says with confidence,
“I can do it on my own now Mrs. Bettina”, I will have succeeded!  

Something fun and personal!

Well, when I was about 11 or 12 years old I loved comic books, especially Donald Duck. I thought it would be a great idea to paint him on my wall in my bedroom. I asked my mom but was told under no circumstances am I allowed to do that! Mind you, I had no ‘training” in painting anything large or even drawing. I was so upset that I wasn't allowed to paint him, that I decided to do it anyway behind the door. It took me a couple of weeks to finish him without anyone noticing. 
This little defiant act was the start of my lifelong love of all things creative. Didn't even get into trouble once I was found out. Must have been not that bad after all!
Little note artists, listen to your parents! 😁