"Creativity is not about talent or perfection — it's about curiosity, reflection, and showing up to the page."
— Ari Elmayan
About
The story behind the work
Ari Elmayan is a book artist and educator whose work explores identity, emotion, and personal narrative through thoughtfully curated sketchbooks. Her practice brings together texture, quotes, observational drawing, collage, and written reflection — treating the page as a space for both visual exploration and emotional inquiry.
Educated at New York University, Ari operates with an art therapy approach, guiding students through mindful sessions that use prompts to explore identity, emotion, and lived experience. She aims to demystify the art process for all — helping both children and adults understand that creativity is not about talent or perfection, but about curiosity, reflection, and showing up to the page.
Through her artwork, commissions, workshops, and shop, she is dedicated to making art approachable, meaningful, and available to everyone. Her teaching and studio practice create supportive, accessible spaces where participants feel encouraged to slow down, experiment, and connect more deeply with their inner voice.
Philosophy
How Ari approaches her work
01
Art therapy approach
Sessions use mindful prompts to explore identity and lived experience — creating a safe space for emotional inquiry through making.
02
Demystifying creativity
Ari believes creativity belongs to everyone. Her goal is to remove the idea that art requires talent — only curiosity and a willingness to try.
03
Slow, intentional making
In a fast world, Ari's practice is an invitation to slow down — to invest in well-being through observation, reflection, and expression.
Experience
Teaching
Résumé
Current
K–12 Visual Arts Teacher
Friends Academy · Locust Valley, NY
Curated inquiry-based curriculum across Studio Art, Digital Illustration, Ceramics, and Digital Photography. Facilitated murals, public art, and 5+ art shows per year.
Prior
Upper School Visual Arts Teacher
Avenues the World School · Manhattan, NY
Delivered rigorous, world-centered curriculum for 9th Grade Studio Art and 10th Grade Digital Photography, grounded in critical inquiry and global perspectives.
2021–2023
Teaching Artist
Children's Museum of the Arts · New York, NY
Blended inclusive teaching practices into virtual and in-person platforms. Managed public art booths on NYC streets and led field trips throughout the city.
2020
Visionary Studios Teacher
New York University · New York, NY
Designed and facilitated "Designing Beyond the Binary" — an inquiry-based curriculum exploring inclusive design with high school students across NYC.
2019 - 2020
Student Art Teacher
Humanities Preparatory Academy & Growing Up Green Charter
Taught empowerment-centered curriculum for grades 4–12 across two NYC schools. Co-taught, managed behavior, and introduced contemporary artists and new techniques.