“As an instructor, I believe in balancing structured project guidance while presenting different options, inspiration and ideas to experiment with, to allow for creative freedom in all my students. Creativity and arts education is not only important for mental and emotional wellness, but also in developing essential observational and problem solving skills that will benefit anyone in any field of work and life. I also believe it’s important for students to talk about their work, whether that’s a critique at the end of class or talking about their ideas while we produce. It’s not only important for students to feel heard, but to also share their different perspectives and begin to develop empathy, which is key to preventing cultural conflict.”
Native to Chicago IL, Kia Neill is a multidiscipline artist working in photography, drawing, painting, collage, ceramics, assemblage sculpture, and installation. She received her MFA from The University of California San Diego and taught college level art for 12+ years, before focusing her teaching for the past 10 years at smaller art centers for ages ranging from 3-70 years old. Currently, Neill teaches at BreckCreate in Breckenridge, and for The Colorado Photographic Arts Center in Denver. Most recently Neill produced commissioned works for Meow Wolf Convergence Station in Denver, the Town of Silverthorne, the Town of Alma, the Children’s Museum of Denver Mariposa Campus, and the Aspen Police Department.