For Schools, Districts, and New Professionals
- New Teacher Mentorship
- Curriculum Development
- Program Implementation
- Professional Development
Hello! I’m so glad you’re here. My life has been a long, colorful journey of finding where I belong and helping others do the same. I started my path as an artist at just eight years old, but my true calling revealed itself in 2004 when I stepped into the world of art education. Since then, my mission has been simple: to be the mentor I wish I’d had.
- 20+ Years of Dedication: A career built on passion and professional expertise.
- Mastery of Craft: A Master Ceramicist who understands the discipline of the “long game.”
- A Strategic Partner: Someone who sees your goals and creates a joyful, clear roadmap to reach them.
- I’m here to help you reach your best creative potential. Let’s build something wonderful together!
For me, teaching isn’t just about passing on a skill—it’s about building a person. Since 2017, I’ve been dedicated to professional development, and as a Subject Matter Expert for graduate-level courses at Arizona State University, I’ve had the joy of shaping the next generation of art professionals.
There is nothing I love more than watching a new teacher or a budding professional find their “spark.” As a Developer and Strategist, I’m wired to see the potential in people and the path to get them there. I don’t just give you a lesson plan; I give you the confidence to lead.
My “classroom” has often been the great outdoors. Whether I’m finding peace in the red rocks of Zion National Park or exploring the historic streets of Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the UK, travel has been my greatest teacher.
Studying Asian Art History broadened my world even further, showing me that there are infinite ways to solve a problem and tell a story. I bring that global curiosity back to every workshop and consultation, encouraging everyone I meet to look at the world with a “What if?” instead of a “Why?”
Growing up as a minority in a hometown where I was often excluded for being different was difficult, but it was also a gift. It taught me the true value of inclusion.
That experience is the heartbeat of Visual Arts Solutions. I am deeply passionate about creating spaces—whether in a school or a business—where honesty, integrity, and joy are the standard. I look at every challenge with a curious eye and a friendly smile, ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table and the tools to succeed.
Stronger Together
Lydia jumped at the opportunity with such enthusiasm and great partnership. What impressed me was her ability to make sure this opportunity was equitable for art students across all different high schools. Typically Visions partners with one classroom teacher at a time, however Lydia took on a seemingly impossible task to stay in communication with students and teachers from different schools to make sure they could make it on these monthly field trips. She was always engaged with the students during their workshops and provided one-on-one mentorship while they were developing their art pieces. Ultimately, the students produced stunning work and were very grateful to be working with Lydia and to be a part of the Visions program. For me personally, I appreciated her can-do attitude and positive spirit, both as a community partner and a friend.
Brittany Arnold
Programming Manager
The Reser Center for the Arts
Lydia’s comprehensive knowledge about art education and organizational skills are an asset for any educator. With her guidance and expertise, I was able to develop age-appropriate lessons for K-5th grade during my artist residency.
Jenny Nakao
Nakao Ceramics
Seward, AK
Our Philosophy
- Professional Development: Empowering K-12 and Special Education teachers to lead with confidence. Having supported one of the nation’s largest districts, we specialize in trauma-informed care and niche pedagogical support.
- Corporate Strategy: Equipping teams with “Creative Friction” tools to bridge the soft-skills gap. We help businesses move from “The Rigid Grid” of stagnation to a culture of high-stakes inquiry.
- Radical Curiosity: We champion all perspectives. We believe that curiosity is the antidote to friction and the foundation of a robust professional toolkit.
At Visual Arts Solutions, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Whether you are a school district looking to revitalize your arts program or a business aiming to boost employee wellness, I provide strategic, curiosity-driven pathways to success.
For Schools, Districts, and New Professionals
- New Teacher Mentorship: I help early-career art educators find their footing, from classroom management to building a sustainable personal practice.
- Curriculum Development; Mapping: Designing graduate-level standards and engaging curricula that meet modern educational needs.
- Program Implementation: Helping schools launch or refine arts programs with a focus on inclusion and long-term success.
- Professional Development (PD): Since 2017, I have led workshops that empower teachers with new technical skills (including Master-level ceramics) and pedagogical strategies.
With my background as a Subject Matter Expert for Arizona State University, I specialize in taking the “overwhelming” out of art education. I focus on building confident, high-performing educators and robust programs.
The Goal: Transform art rooms into centers of innovation where both the teacher and the student thrive.