I am an artist, graphic designer, and educator. My artistic journey began at a young age, thanks to the exposure I received from my father, an artist, who introduced me to various painting mediums. I got a master’s in Philosophy and Education from Saint Petersburg State University (Russia) and studied book design and publishing at Northwestern Institute of Printing Arts. Upon moving to the United States 12 years ago, I completed a 2-year certificate program in graphic design and illustration at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University in Boston. In 2024, I will celebrate her 20th year in education. Teaching, graphic design, and art are my three passions and areas where I feel empowered.
ART
In my artistic explorations, I’ve always focused on drawing, painting, and illustration using traditional artistic media. I also devote a lot of time to making 3D art – mostly small papier-mâché sculptures and needle-felted dolls.
For many years, I have actively participated in local art events. That includes Arlington Open Studios and multiple exhibits organized by Arlington Center for the Arts, Lexington Art Walk (organized by Munroe Center for the Arts), ChairFul Where You Sit, and more. In 2021, I took part in the town’s public art project, supported by the Arlington Commission for Arts and Culture, to decorate utility boxes around the town.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
As a marketing, design, and editorial professional, I have worked at various companies, including publishing offices, marketing departments, the food industry, tech startups, and non-profits. I have a thorough knowledge of design principles and brand guidelines and experience with concepting, creation, and print production. I am proficient in all Mac-based graphic design software, including, but not limited to, Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat), Canva, and other design software. My portfolio includes various marketing collateral, such as presentations, newsletters, brochures, posters, banners, flyers, social media graphics, print, and digital ads.
TEACHING
I have dedicated my entire professional life to teaching. My first degree (MA+PhD) is in Philosophy and Education from St. Petersburg State University, Russia. With 20 years (oh no!) of teaching visual art and computer graphics, I have had the privilege of working with students of all ages, from kindergarteners to adults.
Throughout my career, I have witnessed the transformative power of art in fostering creativity, self-expression, and personal growth. Each age group brings its own unique challenges and rewards, and I have honed my teaching approach to cater to my students’ diverse needs and developmental stages.
In the Greater Boston area, I taught at various community and art centers, including Arlington Community Education, Munroe Center for the Arts, and at independent schools, such as Acera School, Solomon Schechter Day School, Star Academy for Gifted and Talented, and some others.
In 2016, in addition to my work at different schools, I founded an independent art studio. This studio offered various art classes tailored to children and adults, including painting, drawing, and needle felting. Creating this space allowed me to design and implement customized curricula, encouraging students to explore their artistic interests and develop their skills in a supportive and creative environment. Witnessing my students’ progress, both young and grown-ups, brought me immense joy and reinforced my passion for teaching.
During these years of teaching, I took every opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge. Ultimately, I decided to connect my experience with the most recent methods in teaching art, which made me go to school again. Since the fall of 2024, I have been doing a Master’s program at Mount St. Mary’s University’s School of Education, focusing on teaching art and instructional design.
After moving to Maryland in 2023, I will continue teaching classes for children and adults, both online and in person. Currently, I offer small group drawing and painting sessions at my home studio, online group and individual lessons, and art classes for children at Shalom Educational Center (Sunday school).
Please see my teaching portfolios below: