STAFF

Syd Larsen

I attribute my love for art to a neighbor I had growing up. I grew up on a dairy farm in West Jordan, Utah and my neighbor—who had been a High School English teacher, wanted to make sure all of the “farm kids” were exposed to the cultural things in life. She had Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” on her wall and a replica of the “Statue of David’s bust” in her living room. She would often tell us stories of the artists, provided many books I learned to love, and had the best player piano she would let us pedal—I loved the time I could spend with her! As a freshman at BYU, I found myself falling in love with all things “Art” in a Humanities class. I was hooked! I graduated from BYU with an Art History degree, a husband and a two-month-old baby.

My husband’s job has moved us all over the country and I have loved the experiences of new places and people. I love to travel, and I love to come home from my trips and share what I have seen and learned with my students. Five of my eight children have attended Lincoln Academy and we have loved the great experiences Lincoln provides. I started at Lincoln as an Art Docent years ago and have had the great opportunity of being in the classroom with most of your children. I love watching the lightbulb come on when we discuss an art movement and seeing them enjoy the beauty the art world can provide. I have taught every grade and can’t believe I get to teach art everyday of the school week! How often do you get your dream job? My hope as an art teacher, is to teach your children that there is an artist in all of us, and that there is a world out there to be explored. Thanks to the modern artist I teach them “there is not a wrong answer in art!” They love that part because it allows them to step out of their comfort zone and create.