THE AIeG TEAM

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I am a full time drummer and musician. I love sharing music with younger generations and using it as a vehicle to teach math, language, history, culture, philosophy and so much more. 

 Christopher was born in Michoacán, known as the soul of Mexico. This land is filled with mysticism, especially in its rural and Indigenous communities. It’s a mysticism that you don’t just feel—it’s passed down, a deep way of seeing the world that goes beyond what’s visible and, in many ways, defines who we are as Mexicans. For Chris, art comes from that way of seeing. It’s not just an image; it’s a story, an echo of our ancestors, a living testimony to the culture, heritage, and influence each generation has left behind. 

Erin believes that art-making is an instinctual act — an expression that lives within all of us. With the right materials, space, and sense of curiosity we are able to set ourselves free into a flow state.  Her own creative journey began with journaling as a way to give shape to thoughts and then manifested into a desire to craft with any materials that came her way. Over time, this practice evolved into a broader exploration of textiles, found and/or natural objects, paper, color,  and pattern. 

Growing up in Michigan, I embarked on a journey westward after college, eventually returning to school to earn my teaching license. I've called Hood River home for the past 18 years, where I've cherished raising my now adult daughters in this stunning area. Throughout my teaching career here, I've encountered numerous wonderful opportunities, from managing a contained classroom to guest teaching. 

With a Master's in Education, a former elementary school teacher, and 30 years experience working with children, Nicole has a deep-rooted passion for teaching hands-on art experiences that inspire curiosity, exploration and a connection to nature and science. Her hands-on art curriculum provides modeling and scaffolding, clear criteria and attainable expectations so students feel confident and successful . 

Molly discovered her creative voice as a freelance floral designer and that taught her how essential creative practice is to a sense of self.  Earning her teaching credential with a focus in social justice deepened her desire to help students see themselves as makers, unconventional thinkers and the architects of their own  stories. Molly believes the  best art lessons foster self-reflections, vulnerability, confidence and empathy. She thrives on bridging imagination and implementation and meeting students where they are.

Douglas is a set designer of 30 years, a maker of games and music, he writes plays and acts.  Douglas has taught set design to high school and middle school for 6 years in the area and created original children's theater with ameliorate sets, costumes and props.  With experience on the SEL team Douglas helped develop and elaborate on what it means to team teach, partner teach and collaborate with artists across mediums and makes transdisciplinary learning possible.

Harvest is an artist, writer, maker and mother who designs workshops and gatherings that empower creativity, build connection and spark new ways of seeing. She works in ceramics, weaving, installation, embroidery, mixed media and pretty much anything involving hot glue. She has also taught creative writing. Harvest holds an MFA from Columbia University and has trained in TESOL & anti-oppression pedagogy.  Harvest has 15 years of experience and focuses on process and progress rather than perfection. 

Molly grew up in Cincinnati Ohio in a very art forward household, always creating and leaning on art when times were rough. Later on  she appreciated and realized the importance art had on her own life, and felt the need to share this with her own kids and others as well. Molly feels the act of making and creating art is integral to development, in so many ways; you are using both sides of the brain and making connections in the brain and as a way of describing the world, to name a few.

As a retired child and family therapist, Amy finds nothing more empowering—or more essential for personal growth—than expressive, exploratory art making. Art making promotes self awareness, acceptance, problem solving, healing and overall wellbeing. It is both her mission and delight to design and implement immersive, joyful, brain-nourishing, and collaborative creative experiences for children and adults.

Jordan is an ecologist and mixed media collage artist who gives students hands-on opportunities to explore art and science in meaningful, memorable ways. Her goal is to guide students through creative challenges where curiosity, perseverance, and collaboration matter more than perfection, helping them feel both capable and connected.

Formerly a tenured university art professor before moving to the Gorge, Joy has over 30 years of experience teaching art to all ages. Joy has been a teaching artist for Arts in Education of the Gorge for 16 years.  Additionally, Joy has been offering educational and fun art experiences at Joy’s Art Studio for 10 years, where students are provided with a supportive atmosphere in which to feel confident and creative. Joy specializes in painting, drawing, and printmaking.