Crushshon Teaching Philosophy
As an educator and Black Masking Indian Queen, my teaching philosophy is grounded in the principles of diversity, inclusion, and the celebration of cultural identity. I believe that art is a powerful tool for fostering understanding, respect, and dialogue among people from different backgrounds. In my art classroom, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where all students feel valued, empowered, and inspired to express their unique voices.
Diversity is at the heart of my teaching practice. I emphasize the importance of exposing students to a wide range of artistic traditions, from African American and Indigenous art forms to global artistic movements. By broadening their perspectives, students learn to appreciate the richness of cultures around the world and are encouraged to explore their own cultural heritage in their work. I actively seek out diverse materials, artists, and historical contexts to ensure that all students can see themselves reflected in the art they study.
Inclusion is essential for fostering creativity and growth. I am committed to removing barriers that may prevent students from fully participating in the learning process, whether those barriers are related to race, gender, ability, or socioeconomic status. My lessons are designed to be adaptable, providing students with multiple ways to engage with art. I encourage collaboration and peer learning, recognizing that diverse experiences and perspectives enhance the creative process.
Respecting culture and identity is a core value in my teaching. I challenge students to explore how their identities shape their artistic expression, while teaching them to respect and honor the identities of others. Art has the power to tell stories, and I guide my students in using their work to document, preserve, and celebrate their cultural histories. Through projects that center around personal and collective identity, my students learn that art is not only a form of self-expression but also a tool for social change and cultural preservation.
My goal as an educator is to nurture confident, socially conscious artists who understand the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to making a positive impact through their work.
“Art is Work” - John Scott
My art is a celebration of identity, culture, and resilience, deeply rooted in the rich traditions of the Black Masking Indian culture and African American history. Through abstract paintings, I seek to convey the complexities of our shared stories, blending bold colors, intricate patterns, and textured layers to evoke emotion, memory, and a sense of place. My work is both a personal journey and a reflection of collective experiences—drawing on themes of survival, resistance, and transformation.
As a Black Masking Indian Queen, my mission is to honor the legacy of those who came before me while pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms. My paintings, like the ceremonial suits I create, are layered with meaning and symbolism, merging cultural history with contemporary expression. Each piece is an exploration of ancestral connections, community struggles, and triumphs, expressed through the interplay of color, form, and texture.
I use abstraction to express what words often cannot—capturing the spirit and energy of a people and a culture that is both fluid and unbreakable. My mission as an artist is not only to document and preserve the cultural traditions of my community but to inspire others to embrace their identities and histories as sources of strength and creativity. Through my work, I hope to challenge stereotypes, provoke thought, and inspire dialogue, while contributing to the ongoing narrative of Black cultural pride and artistic innovation.
