Yana

Certified Tutor

As an educator with over 13 years of teaching experience, my passion for helping students unlock their creative potential is at the heart of everything I do. I have dedicated my career to fostering a learning environment that emphasizes the value of art, not only as a creative pursuit but also as a powerful tool for personal expression and communication. With an MFA in Painting and Printmaking from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and currently pursuing a PhD in Visual Arts, I am deeply committed to helping students understand the transformative power of the visual arts, whether through traditional media or digital platforms.

In my teaching at Parsons School of Design, I prioritize a student-centered approach that caters to each individual's needs, ensuring that every learner has the support and resources to succeed. I believe that teaching is most effective when students are actively engaged and encouraged to explore their unique interests, strengths, and creative voices. My role as an instructor is not just to provide technical skills but to guide students in cultivating their own artistic identities. Whether I'm tutoring drawing and painting techniques or teaching digital media tools such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop, I tailor my approach to meet the diverse learning styles and goals of my students.

Outside the classroom, I believe in the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. I enjoy spending time outdoors, running, and hiking with my dog and husband, which inspires my work and keeps me grounded. These moments of reflection in nature often influence my own artistic practice, as well as the way I approach teachingby emphasizing mindfulness, creativity, and personal growth.

Ultimately, my goal as an educator is to create an atmosphere where students feel inspired, challenged, and supported in their artistic journey. I strive to help them recognize not only the technical aspects of art but also the deeper meaning and impact their work can have on the world.