Hello! I am Ellen Barrett and I love to create!  Some of my passions include, painting (especially watercolor), knitting socks and sweaters, crocheting stuffed animals and sewing quilts and clothing.  Not only do I enjoy creating beautiful pieces of artwork, I also love to teach children and teens to do the same.  I am excited to teach visual and textile art classes such as knitting, crocheting, sewing, painting and drawing on the Outschool platform.      

I graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelors of Art degree.  My concentration was in painting.  I completed a year of fundamental drawing courses, a year of graphic design courses and a year of painting and pottery courses.  To concentrate in painting, I was required to take oil, acrylic and, watercolor courses.  My degree also required two years of art history courses.   My art degree prepared me to work as a graphic designer at the Birmingham News after graduation. While working as a graphic designer, I completed an additional year of classes in raku pottery as well as training with a professional ceramic artist.  Although I do not have a formal degree related to the textile arts, I sewed professionally for my business Seams Charming, specializing in children's clothing.       

I believe art is a valuable part of every student's education.  Did you know that taking art classes has been shown to increase problem solving and critical thinking skills?  Children have a natural curiosity that leads to creativity.  With a little encouragement and simple instruction, each student can discover their inner artist.  For the previous seven years, I have shared my love for art by teaching children in kindergarten through sixth grade the fundamentals of drawing and painting. I implemented and directed a local community fine arts camp which encompassed theater, visual art and singing.  During our week long camp, we taught over eighty elementary children, of varying skill levels, to create visual art, sing and act.  This year I am really excited to be teaching Renaissance Art and art history to seventh through twelfth graders.  
 
I look forward to meeting your student! Together we will create beautiful works of art!