All about JR
Growing up in the 90’s the message was clear: “Grow-up, go to college, get a 9-5, and you’ll be a success.” So I followed suit. I gave up my dream of being a children’s book illustrator, and as high school approached I sought to find a compromise–a career with enough creativity to scratch that itch, yet would fit the mold of “success”. I spent years interning with architects around Colorado, entering competitions, trying to convince myself that this was what I wanted. However it all came crashing down after a very discouraging conversation with my sustainability professor. Any and all passion that I had built up over the years was snuffed out. So I dropped out of the program and once again was drifting aimlessly, not sure if I would ever find my “true calling.”
Where I Started...
Where I'm Going...
Fast forward to 2021 when I began volunteering 1-2 hours a week reading with my son's classmates. For the first time I felt as though I was where I was supposed to be. As the months went on, my time with the kids quickly became my favorite part of the week, and from the beginning of kindergarten to the end of 1st grade I continued to volunteer with the “Book Bag” program.
The experience of being in the classroom completely reshaped my perspective on success and gave me a renewed vigor for life. It is no longer about a title change or chasing a pay increase and a pat on the back. It is the trust built with the students, knowing I am on their team and will always show up for them. I was blessed with the ability to volunteer and find these moments of happiness, but now that my son is older—and the need for parent involvement is less—it is time I follow my gut and pursue a teaching career in art.
My goal is not just to teach them how to draw or the history of the color wheel, but to help students find their own way to (safely) show the world how they feel. Be it through drawing, sculpting, digital designs, sound, my aim is to demonstrate there is no one right way to be an artist or to convey their individuality. My art teachers helped push me to let go of what I thought I “should” do, and showed me strength in what I could do—and now it's my turn to give that courage back to the community.