about
Emmalee Maine is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Communication Arts program. From an early age, Emmalee had a love for art. By the age of two, she was sketching away in a sketchbook. Emmalee’s mother was also a teacher and quickly recognized Emmalee’s love and skill for art. She had Emmalee in extracurricular art classes and summer camps as early as elementary school. Throughout high school, she was known as “the art kid” and it didn’t stop there. Emmalee continued her art exploration into college where she learned to oil paint – her favorite medium – and completed her degree in 2014. Emmalee worked as a graphic designer after graduating, but continued her fine art on the side. She has shown work in many local galleries in Fredericksburg, DC, and Richmond.
At home, Emmalee is a mom of a seven year old girl, Lilith. She and Lilith love to draw and paint together, explore nature, and bake tasty treats. Over the past few years, Emmalee has been running her own business where she sells curated vintage clothing and creates custom painted leather jackets at pop-up markets.
philosophy
As an aspiring art teacher, my teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child is inherently creative and that art provides a vital means of self-expression, problem-solving, and critical thinking. I strive to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where students feel safe to explore their ideas, experiment with materials, and develop confidence in their artistic abilities. By integrating art history, cultural diversity, and interdisciplinary connections, I encourage students to see art as a dynamic and meaningful part of their world. I emphasize the creative process over perfection, fostering a growth mindset that values effort, curiosity, and resilience. Through hands-on activities and student-centered learning, I aim to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts while supporting each child’s unique artistic voice.
