Hello, I am Emily Anderson, the Head of the Visual Arts Department at Riverside Academy for the Arts. My journey in the world of art is not just a career path; it’s a lifelong passion and exploration of creativity. I was born on June 9, 1980, in Providence, Rhode Island, where the rich cultural environment fueled my early interest in the arts.

I pursued my undergraduate degree in Fine Arts at Yale University, an experience that profoundly shaped my artistic perspective and academic pursuits. At Yale, I was deeply engaged in exploring various art forms, from traditional painting to modern digital art. This multidisciplinary approach has become a hallmark of my teaching philosophy.

After Yale, I attended Columbia University for my Master’s in Art Education, where I focused on curriculum development and educational theories in art education. This period was crucial in understanding how art can be effectively taught and integrated into broader educational contexts.

Since 2010, I have been with Riverside Academy for the Arts, where I lead a vibrant department of artists and educators. We strive to create a learning environment that encourages students to explore their creativity, develop technical skills, and engage critically with their surroundings.

My expertise lies not only in teaching art but also in integrating art education with emotional and social learning. I believe that art is a powerful medium for self-expression and understanding the world. My approach to teaching art is holistic – focusing on developing the artistic skills of students while also nurturing their emotional intelligence and cultural awareness.

Beyond the classroom, I have been involved in various community art projects and have collaborated with local galleries to showcase student work. I believe in the power of art to connect communities and open dialogues.

In my career, I have seen students transform through their engagement with art. It’s a transformation that goes beyond just learning a skill – it’s about discovering new ways of seeing and understanding the world.

I continue to be a student of art myself, always exploring, learning, and growing. To me, teaching art is not just a profession; it’s a way of sharing my passion and helping shape the next generation of artists and art appreciators.