Art and life are so closely intertwined that what one creates is really an extension of emotions and imagination, filtered through a net of experience. Sources of inspiration abound everywhere, whether they are the tempests of world conflict, the gentle satisfactions of a beautiful sunset or a hummingbird hovering at a feeder. These quiet moments feed my soul while life's twists and turns have given me an appreciation for experiencing new things through art. As a middle school art teacher, I hope to teach young people how to bridge the gap between themselves and a tumultuous world and give them a positive outlet for self expression.