Swenson Studios

I taught art in the public school system for ten years at two different elementary schools (grades k-5). I now owns and operate Swenson Studios where I teach small groups, home school students, private lessons, students with special needs, and adult students.

I love pushing my students in media and methods behind which others feel they are capable (Example: spray paint with third grade, glue guns with second grade). As an elementary school art teacher I took it as a special challenge to avoid “cookie cutter” art and crafts. I wanted EVERY student’s work to look unique and reflect their personality and their original thought. My first year teaching my school principal walked around the end-of-year art show and remarked, “I can’t believe it... no two artworks look alike!” It was the best compliment I could have ever received! My second favorite has always been, “Wait?!? A SECOND GRADER (or plug in the grade level) did that?!?” I believe children and adults are capable of wonderfully amazing things!

- dual award from Kutztown University: creativity of her curriculum / implementation of character education in the classroom - reader’s choice award for self-published children’s book

I received her bachelors degree in art education from Brigham Young University and my masters degree in art education from Kutztown University. I’ve been taking continuing education courses in art production from various universities ever since!

As the oldest of six kids, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. My mom built a classroom for me in our basement... complete with a set of school desks and a chalkboard. In this era before home computers and printers I drew all the worksheets I gave to my “students” by hand. That desire to create all of my own materials has stayed with me. As a teacher I never purchased any curriculum, posters, bulletin board fodder, signs, power points, labels, worksheets, etc. I wanted to create them all myself. I’ve always loved that part of teaching, so Teacher’s Pay Teachers felt like, it was made for me! I enjoy expressing my creative side in other ways as well: I own an Etsy store with my husband, CottonTales Designs, where he sells the literary-based children’s apparel and room decor I design. I’ve also self-published a children’s book for sale on Amazon (with more on the back burner), have worked for years as a graphic designer, and have done countless commissioned works of art. I also love inventing recipes, making homemade gifts, inventing games and activities for my little family, party planning, and decorating my home. I gather inspiration from the world around me and my experiences. For that reason, I love traveling the world, learning new things, and am extremely active in my faith. My husband, my 2.5 children and I live in Pennsylvania.