Favorites: painting, singing, music production, gettin’ sunshine, coffee, plants

Loved Ones: Parents, one brother, 2 dogs, 1 cats, and my wonderful boyfriend!

About Me

Hi! My name is Jenna Richards and I am a soon-to-be graduate of the University of Northern Colorado with my bachelors in K-12 Art Education. During college, I emphasized in painting, but loved ceramics enough that I took extra classes too! This may come as a shock… but my passion is art! Outside of the classroom, I enjoy doing anything creative; even if it isn’t visual. You can always find me singing, writing poetry, producing music, ect. In high school, I was a member of a TON of clubs. I have great memories from joining NAHS (national art honors society), musicals, choir, colorguard, and art club. As a formerly VERY shy kid, these experiences made comfortable in front of people. Before I became an art teacher, I worked at UNCO as a tour guide and event leader. Some days our auditorium would fill up with over 600 guests, I would get mic’d up, and I would present to them all at once- talk about a test in confidence!

Nowadays, I love interacting with people and being creative with alongside them. Because of that, teaching art truly feels like my calling. I’ve always been described as positive, but with a career like mine, I can’t imagine being any other way! I’m incredibly grateful to do something that fill my cup, and challenges me in the best of ways.

pssst.. you there! See my art and teaching philosophy below

  • party of one - acrylic on canvas '23

  • Getaway car- Acrylic on canvas '22

  • mind the gap - Acrylic on canvas '23

  • snow in Kyoto- slip on ceramic bowl '22

  • Backseat Driver - acrylic on canvas '23

  • love is a lotus -slip on clay '22

Artist statement

As a painter, I specialize in crafting portraits that transcend mere representation. Through a meticulous interplay of light and shadow, I seek to capture the essence of my subjects, not just their physical features but the essence of their being. Each portrait is a journey into the depths of the moody human experience.

What sets my work apart is its luminosity. I am drawn to the allure of light, and I harness its power to infuse my paintings with an immersive glow. Through the subtle interplay of luminescent pigments, I create an atmosphere that envelops the viewer, drawing them in.

my teaching  philosophy

As an art educator, my foremost priority is to cultivate deep connections with my students. I firmly believe in recognizing each student as a unique individual, with their own background, experiences, and dreams. By understanding and embracing the entirety of who they are, I create a nurturing learning environment grounded in empathy and trust.

I see intrinsic motivation as the cornerstone of true learning. Rather than relying on solely external incentives, I strive to ignite and fuel my students' curiosity and passion for art. Through tailored instruction that aligns with their strengths, learning styles, fears, and aspirations, I empower them to find genuine motivation for their artistic exploration and growth.

Beyond the confines of the classroom, I acknowledge and respect the diverse lives my students lead. It's essential to support their holistic development, celebrating their uniqueness and individuality. By creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and valued, I guide them on a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and growth, driven by the transformative power of art education.

Awards & Recognitions

  • 2020-2024 portfolio scholarship award

  • 2020- first place

  • Grand Prize/First Place

  • 2nd plac online voters, 1st place in person voters