Laura Barlich

Background

About Laura Barlich

After graduating from Illinois State University with my Bachelors in Art Education, I worked in Chicago public schools for 4 years. I developed curriculum at George Westinghouse College Prep High School as a first year teacher teaching grades 9-12. My 2nd year teaching I started the Sculpture program as well.As I developed my own body of art in ceramics and photography, I was able to run a successful photography business with my partner. I left teaching for 3 years to pursue running the company. This gave me real world experience in owning and operating a business as an Artist. This was invaluable as I have since returned to teaching and can guide students who would like to pursue a career in the arts.While living in Denver, I worked at a makers space called “Craftsman & Apprentice”. There I was an art teacher for adult workshops, kid’s parties, and art camps. It gave me experience teaching in a studio setting and allowed me to expand my teaching techniques. When I returned to Chicago, I worked part-time with ASM (After School Matters) and their “Peacemaker” program. This program let me combine my love for art and leadership while fostering a space for teens to create a community service project based on a relevant social issue in their neighborhood. For the last 2 years, I’ve worked with a company called “Little Linguists Arts Academy”. They contracted me to work at a private school teaching PreK-8th grade Art. It was great - I got back to my roots of traditional teaching and was able to use my experience to enhance the curriculum.Currently, I am looking for a full-time Art Teacher job. I grew out of my role at LLAA and am ready to invest/work in a community that values students/youth and the arts.