Hillary Parker
As an artist, I enjoy dual art careers of teaching and painting, spanning 30 years. I do what I love and I love what I do! As a professional botanical watercolor artist, my paintings are exhibited and sold worldwide. Using my degree in art education, I share my passion for art with students of all ages. It is a daily joy for me to work with the students, faculty, and administration at Riviera. I teach with enthusiasm to develop art skills that engage critical thinking, putting an equal emphasis on the creative process and the final outcome. By providing a supportive environment, I encourage my students to communicate and express themselves authentically through their art.
This exhibit is a celebration of their positive attitudes and exceptional efforts put forth to create artwork of uncommon excellence! I am so incredibly proud of each of my students and inspired by their resilience and adaptability during this pandemic; whether they have shown up to class in person or online each day, they put their personal best into their artwork...Bravo!
Michelle Horne
Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to create. Growing up, I took every art lesson and class I could, attended magnet schools, and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts as a painting major. But it wasn't until my first year of teaching when I realized that my need to share the joy of creation with others was best realized in the art classroom. I have over 11 years of teaching experience, and have loved every minute!
As the Drawing and Painting, Ceramics, and Sixth Grade Art teacher, I have the opportunity to work with students of all ages and abilities. My job is to help students develop confidence in their ability to create and think critically. Every project is a problem that they need to solve or an opportunity to redefine and create something new. I want them to get the satisfaction of shaping something they can call their very own. For me, there is nothing like the joy of watching students create their vision and light up with enthusiasm.
I consider myself one of the luckiest people in the world because I get to realize this dream at Riviera Preparatory alongside the rest of my Bulldog family. My students have done an incredible job this year and have not stopped innovating…even at home! I am so proud to show off their masterpieces. Way to go!