Creating Connections: Inspiring Lifelong Love of the Arts
Where Art Becomes Community
By Teaching Artist Tiffany Knapow on Connection, Creativity, and Belonging
For the past 15 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working as a visual arts teaching artist at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, offering classes in a wide variety of media and materials. During that time, I’ve shared the joy of artmaking with budding artists of all ages—from curious toddlers to engaged adults—and every stage in between.
Working with the youngest artists is especially delightful. I get to watch them discover how paint works, explore shapes and marks, and experience the simple magic of creating something new. As the teaching artist for the Wilson Center Free Family Art workshops, I’ve also had the unique joy of seeing families return year after year. I’ve watched children grow up through their artwork, their skills and confidence evolving with each visit.
Teaching Artist, Tiffany Knopow
As the art teacher for The Art of Nature Camp at the Wilson Center, I’ve worked with some campers for five summers in a row and continue to be amazed by their creativity and talent. One memorable year, during superhero day, a group of sixth graders decided my superpower was “cutting.” They even made me a special scissors emblem to wear on my cape—apparently, I’m a very fast cutter!
Teaching adult classes brings its own kind of joy. I love watching participants gain confidence as they learn new skills and complete projects they’re proud of. One of my favorite classes to teach is the Wednesday morning Art Dabble class. Each session introduces a new project—crochet, painting, journaling, collage, and more—many of which can be completed in a single day. Just as meaningful as the art is the sense of community that’s formed. Students often arrive early to chat and enjoy coffee together before class begins. This particular class has become a welcoming space to create art and build friendships.
On especially lucky days, I get to see the full circle of this community. I might meet a family during Free Family Art, see their children return for Art of Nature Camp, and later welcome a parent into an adult class. Sometimes, when I come back in the evening, I even spot former campers or counselors performing onstage in the theater. The Wilson Center really touches all aspects of the community!
Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts supports visual artists. Our talents and the projects we share are truly valued here. The Center has been a wonderful place to form meaningful connections and to witness how the arts enrich and strengthen our community.
Visit our website for classes or other ways to experience the arts at www.wilson-center.com