Artist Statement: 

As a recent Fort Hays State University graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics, my artistic practice is rooted in experimentation and thematic exploration. I am drawn to the malleability of clay and embrace the unpredictability of the kiln, pushing boundaries to create work that resonates both aesthetically and emotionally.

Looking further to refine my craft, I am pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics at Fort Hays State University to immerse myself in the community of like-minded artists and continue my artistic growth. Alternatively, I am also interested in leveraging my passion for art to inspire the next generation by teaching in a small public school setting, imparting technical skills and fostering creativity.

My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact through my art, whether through creating thought-provoking pieces or nurturing young talents.

Work Statement:

Driven by a profound passion for art and a commitment to education, I aspire to contribute to the enrichment of students' lives through teaching. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics, I am enthusiastic about imparting my knowledge and fostering creativity in a small school setting if one should present itself.

In the interim, I am open to continuing to substitute teach or participate in a Transition-to-Teaching program, recognizing the value of gaining practical experience and refining my teaching pedagogy. I am committed to adapting my approach to meet the unique needs of each student and to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Furthermore, I am eager to enhance my skills and broaden my impact by pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics, with the intention of teaching at the college level. I aim to engage students in critical discourse, cultivate their artistic sensibilities, and instill in them a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Ultimately, my goal is to inspire creativity, ignite curiosity, and empower students to express themselves artistically, whether in a small school or college setting.

Biographical Statement:

As a nontraditional student pursuing my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics, I bring many years of life experience and a variety of skills to my college educational experience.  

I began my college education right after high school, participating in intercollegiate sports - cross country and track.  The hours required to train effectively and compete in that sport took a toll on my educational performance.  I transferred to a couple of different colleges - mainly to be closer to family and my future wife.  

Upon starting our family, my wife and I chose to live in our hometown, St. John, KS.  I took a break from pursuing my college education and worked different service and retail jobs - learning communication and management skills that would help me later in life.  In the meantime, I finished my Associate Degree, and my wife completed her Master's in School Counseling.  I also completed training and licensure as a bicycle mechanic.  I opened my own bicycle repair business in St. John and began substitute teaching for our local school district.  I also obtained my Commercial Driver’s License to drive bus routes for our school.  

Upon visiting Fort Hays State University with my youngest daughter while she was exploring her post-secondary educational options, I reconnected with my former art instructor, who is currently the ceramics professor there.  I then decided to continue my education and finish my Bachelor of Fine Arts, graduating in May 2024.  Because of my positive experiences, I have chosen to pursue my Master of Fine Arts, concentrating in ceramics, at Fort Hays State University.