Philosphy
A Two-Way Exchange of Ideas
Experience and Approach
With over two decades of experience as a teaching artist, Heidi specializes in expressive and practical artforms—abstract painting and drawing, large-scale installations, visual journaling, and bookbinding. Since 2003, she has shared her passion for art with students of all ages, drawing on her own experience as an "alternative learner" to create engaging programs that honor different ways of thinking and learning.
Heidi's work bridges the expressive (abstract painting, visual exploration) with the practical (bookbinding, journaling as a learning tool), recognizing that both are essential for developing confident, creative individuals who can think visually, work with their hands, and express themselves authentically.
Heidi Jeub is a passionate advocate for artist residencies that have a lasting, community-driven impact. She believes residencies should reflect both the artist's background and the unique identity of the community they enter. Rather than being a one-way exchange of talent, Heidi views residencies as a two-way exchange of ideas, skills, and experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Supporting Alternative Learners
As an alternative learner herself, Heidi understands that traditional schooling doesn't work for everyone. Her programs are specifically designed to reach students who:
- Think in pictures more than words
- Need to work with their hands to understand concepts
- Feel like they "aren't good at school"
- Learn through exploration rather than instruction
- Need creative outlets that also build practical skills
Through expressive artforms like abstract painting and visual journaling, students discover they ARE capable—they just need different ways to engage with learning. Through practical artforms like bookbinding, they build confidence through tangible accomplishment and develop patience, focus, and craftsmanship.
This dual approach—expressive freedom paired with practical skill-building—creates a powerful foundation for students to trust themselves as learners and creators.
Fostering Artistic Freedom
A strong believer in the power of artistic freedom, Heidi sees residencies as an opportunity for students to explore creativity without the pressure of grades or peer judgment. This freedom fosters innovation, self-expression, and confidence.
Maximizing Community Impact
Heidi is committed to maximizing the potential of residencies through creative funding and strategic partnerships, ensuring their impact reaches beyond the educational setting. By leveraging local resources and social media, she works to integrate the artist's work into the broader community, creating a ripple effect that benefits both students and the wider population.
Creating Lasting Legacy
Her versatility in adapting to diverse educational environments allows her to connect with learners from all backgrounds, fostering creativity across disciplines. With a focus on community sustainability, Heidi strives to create residencies that leave a lasting cultural legacy.
“Heidi was an excellent resident artist to have in my classroom. She related well with the kids and was able to give them a beginning understanding of a difficult concept—abstract art. I would very much enjoy her in my classroom again.”
Ms. Pietruszewski, Tri County School