Q: Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, and what made you want to become a teacher?
I received two bachelors degrees from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. Bachelors of Science in Textiles, Clothing and Design and a Bachelor of Fine Art. I received my Masters of Fine Art with an emphasis in fibers from Arizona State University. Alongside my own art practice, I collaborate a lot with my husband Matthew Creech. Check out our website: www.creechers.com.
I think becoming a teacher is written somewhere in my genetics – My dad is a high school teacher in my hometown in Nebraska. I had my first taste of being a teacher during an artist residency at Park Middle School. THAT was hard work!! Later, I was asked to teach Color Theory at Arizona State University and really enjoyed working with and learning from college students.
Q: What’s your favorite medium to work in or teach?
I love working with textiles and technology. On the surface these mediums seem as opposite as night and day. However, I’ve found that people have a personal connection tied to textiles and technology because both mediums inhabit our day-to-day lives.
Q: What made you interested in the arts?
I would have to blame my professors. First, I was nudged into art by my 2D professor Patricia Morgado, she told me my craft was messy, but I was definitely an artist. My advisor and drawing professor Dana Fritz encouraged me to pursue a graduate degree in Fine Arts. My craft got much cleaner in grad school! I’ve been really lucky to have lots of support and mentorship.
Q: What brought you to DeLand, FL?
I was extremely excited about the interdisciplinary position as the Brown Visiting-Teacher Scholar in Creative Arts at Stetson University. My excitement grew after my initial visit where I met with bright students and inspiring faculty…you all made my decision easy!
Q: Anything you’d like your students to know about you?
One of my favorite experiences was working as the Fashion Curatorial Assistant to Dennita Sewell at the Phoenix Art Museum. During my time in that position, I worked on a fabulous show Emphatics that featured clothing by Alexander McQueen, Issey Miyake, Thierry Mugler, John Galliano, Romeo Gigli, Alaia, and Jean Paul Gaultier.
HERE is a link to view images from the show.
Q: Do you have any advice for students trying to make it in the art world?
Everyone needs a day job – find one that exposes you to art. Before getting my legs as a professor, I worked as an assistant to professional artists, in a few frame shops and in an art museum. Say yes to opportunities even if you don’t think you are ready. You’ll surprise yourself with the amount you’ll grow to meet that expectation. Show your work often and be proud of it. Put your defenses down and get feedback from lots of different people about your art – this will expand your knowledge of your own work. Lastly – keep making art!
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