What happens when the artist becomes the story? In this episode of K12ArtChat, Matt and Laura talk with author Andrew Dietz about the intersection of visual art and fiction—and why creative writing belongs in the arts. The conversation highlights his novel Ever U, where a visual artist takes center stage and the art world shapes the narrative. Blending storytelling and artistic insight, this episode explores creativity and how imagination influences both what we create and how we see the world. 

In this episode of K12ArtChat, Matt talks high school art educator Benjamin Hoffman to talk about how he uses data points in his art room to not only advocate for his program and students but also improve his curriculum! The data points Ben outlines help him give evidence to administration and parents that his curriculum works in achieving student’s creative goals. Listen in to hear more from Ben!

In this episode of K12ArtChat, Matt is joined by returning guests David Modler and Sam Peck to debrief the NAEA 2026 Convention in Chicago. From inspiring keynotes and hands-on workshops to make-and-takes in the exhibitor hall, they share their favorite moments and biggest takeaways. They also reflect on their session on communal visual journaling, what they learned from fellow art educators, and why NAEA continues to be such a valuable and energizing experience. Thinking about attending in 2027? This episode offers a great preview of what to expect.

In this episode of K12ArtChat, Matt & Laura talk with art educators and longtime NAEA members Cheryl Maney and James Rees about what makes the NAEA Convention a must-attend professional development experience for art educators. Cheryl and James share tips and tricks for successful conference attendance, information on the plethora of benefits attendees can find, as well as a preview of their upcoming visual journaling session. Not only are there hundreds of sessions but plenty of them feature make-and-take activities, amazing resources for art educators, and discussions hosted by artists and educators like you! Listen to hear more from Cheryl and James.

In this episode of K12ArtChat, former Connected Arts Network (CAN) leaders Amy Appleton (now with Young Audiences for Learning) and Kendall Crabbe reflect on years of hard work evolving art education through interdisciplinary collaboration, supporting art educators, and encouraging them to start their own Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Amy and Kendall share their knowledge on how to nurture teacher leadership, sustain meaningful collaboration, and how art educators can stay connected and inspired beyond formal programs. 

In this episode of K12ArtChat, the Creativity Department talks with NAEA Supervision & Administration Division leaders Gino Molfino and Sarah Ackermann about the recent pre-convention webinars they are moderating around the topic “Leading with Purpose”. They share practical advice on how they navigate district politics, collaboration across subjects, and how educators can advocate for stronger K–12 visual arts programs. Listen in to hear more from Gino and Sarah about how you can influence meaningful change in your art program!

Students are already creating with images, sound, and video—are our art classrooms keeping up? In this episode, Matt and Laura sit down with Yes Ma’am, a media arts collective of three high school art educators from Charlotte, North Carolina, to explore the growing role of media arts in visual arts education. From CTE pathways to state standards, they share how digital media helps connect with student interests, spark engagement, encourage creative risk-taking, and can expand what it means to be an artist. Hit play and get inspired.

In this episode, Matt & Laura talk to Millersville University’s Professor in Art Education – Dr. Leslie Gates! Listen in to this information packed episode where she shares her approach to student led assessment. Discover how it affects student engagement and risk-taking in the art room. Hear how art educators can reframe assessment about mastery of skills and “grading” artistic ideas to having students work toward achieving benchmarks they help set. Additionally, learn how student led assessment can help build social skills around receiving critiques, peer-feedback, and self-reflection. Listen to hear more from Dr. Gates! 

In this episode, the Creativity Department chats with returning guest and longtime art educator, Jeanne Bjork about handling difficult transitions. Listen in for a fresh perspective on how educators at crossroads such as retirement can approach these changes with optimism, not fear. Discover strategies for staying positive, creative, and curious. By pursuing opportunities within her passions, making time to create art, and exploring new mediums Jeanne has cracked the code to approaching any crossroad fearlessly. Listen in to hear Jeanne’s inspiring outlook on what comes next!

After a year filled with challenges, growth, and hard-earned perspective, the Creativity Department’s annual New Year episode couldn’t just be about self-reflection.  To kick off 2026, we take a different approach. Davis Publications Marketing Director, Toni Henneman, steps in as guest host to guide a forward-looking conversation centered around professional identity, 2026 goals, and moments that made us proud to be art educators! Happy New Year!