Venus by Virtue

    My name is Tay. I was born in Shawnee, Kansas in May of 1994. My parents moved to Des Moines, IA when I was 4 years old and I spent the rest of my childhood in a small suburb, Pleasant Hill. While growing up surrounded by cornfields I had a lot of time to dream, and make up worlds of my own. I was constantly making things with my hands and learning new crafts. It wasn't until high school that I realized I loved to draw. Once I dipped into the art world I never looked back.

     It was an easy choice to go to Iowa State University, major in Integrated Studio Arts and minor in Advertising. I attended and worked at a summer camp called Camp Hantesa and for years kids referred to me as Miss Venus. Hence the name; Venus by Virtue

   After graduating from Iowa State University in the Fall of 2016 I began to work on small commissions, murals and developing my personal work.  I worked at a furniture design company for about a year, learning how to woodburn and finish wood projects. After leaving Sticks, I was hired on as Creative Arts Director at Camp Hantesa. I was in charge of a staff of 10 international arts counselors. I oversaw crafts such as painting, drawing, pottery (wheel & hand building), lapidary, photography, nature art, drama, music, and many more. This job was extremely fullfilling. I loved working with kids and coaching counselors to be more confident in their own art.

   Currently I am working as a painting & pottery Instructor at the Alpine Arts Center in Gyspum, Colorado! I'd love to chat about art, or a possible commission.