top of page

Hello and Welcome!

pollak-profile-cropped.jpg

Welcome to my art educator website. I have worn many hats as an artist.

 

As an Arts Educator, I've taught classes to kids and adults of all ages. I currently teach Portfolio Development classes for teens wishing to apply to art high schools and colleges as well as figure drawing workshops. I work as an adjunct professor at California College of the Arts (CCA), at RISD Continuing Education (remotely) and teach graduate level workshops at Boston University. I have taught photography, painting, animation, digital tools and collage workshops both in person and virtually.

​

I earned my BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design, where I focused on Film/Animation, Painting & Photography.

For 25+ years I worked as staff artist and a freelance Illustrator. My clients included Penguin Putnam, The Gap, The Washington Post, Clear Channel, Simon & Schuster, and Random House. 

​

I earned my MA in Arts Education at Boston University.

I maintain a professional painting studio and have been an exhibiting fine artist and art curator since 2016.

​

I am available for private art coaching and portfolio development for youth aged 11-18. Please contact me for my current rates.

2026 Winter/Spring Classes for Teens

***NOTE: All classes are in person unless indicated

diversity.png
winter-song.jpg
faces.jpg
20250308_125655.jpg

All work by high school students (2024-2025)

High School Figure Drawing

SPRING: March 15 - May 10, 2026 (8 sessions, no class on EASTER)  Sundays: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Course description: California College of the Arts offers this course as a special opportunity for high school students to develop their drawing skills and experience drawing from a live nude model. We'll take a deep dive into a variety of materials, techniques and approaches. Self expression is encouraged!​

2026 Summer Classes for Teens

NEW! EAST BAY: I'll be offering 2 Summer intensive camps for young artists at Colorspace Arts Studio in El Cerrito, CA

June 22-26: Teens age 8-14  

July 27-August 7: TEENS age 14-18 

NEW! SAN FRANCISCO JULY 6-24

I'll be offering a summer intensive art course for a small group of TEENS age 13-18 at my SOMA private art studio with a 1, 2 or 3 week option.

 

Each week will include:

  • Individualized projects and instruction to create portfolio-worthy work

  • Figure drawing with live models

  • Field trips to local galleries, museums and studio visits

  • Student led-critiques and art discussions

  • Daily sketchbook challenges

Subscribe to my mailing list.

bottom of page