Teaching is second nature to me. When I am working in my studio, there is always an analytical narrative in my head about how I can explain the technique and the materials to someone else, and this communication is the root of my inspiration for teaching. It’s thrilling to see my students connecting with the subject, lighting up if they answer a question correctly or finding their natural rhythm working with a new material or technique.

Interdisciplinary study is ingrained in my approach to fashion and textiles. Every discipline is connected in some way, and this is one of the “big ideas” I bring into the classroom. Fabricating textiles is not just an art form, but requires math and engineering to build weave structure and pattern, chemistry to sustainably dye cloth and create new fibers, and technology to assist with conceptualizing and creating garments.

Student assignments at home and in the classroom are centered on the idea of helping them connect to the field through self-examination. Discussions and freestyle writing are opportunities for self-reflection, in which each individual identifies what resonates for them personally within the lesson and the field at large. In lab courses, students are learning a variety of techniques, including: fiber spinning, tapestry and pattern weaving, dyeing with natural and synthetic dyes, and surface design techniques including block printing and screen printing. Digital media is used to teach design for woven and knit fabrics, embroidery, and prints. A major aspect of evaluating student work is their presentation of the tutorial blog/vlog, which documents their work and also teaches them how to break down and analyze the process, which is the focus of learning new techniques.

I am always looking for ways to enhance, revise and clarify my teaching in an effort improve how material is communicated to my students. I learn the most about areas for improvement by listening carefully to student questions and comments, observing my colleagues as they teach, collaborating with different departments, and attending faculty workshops.