Featured Visual Artist/ Educator- April Sharpe

Tell us something about yourself: What is your creative history?

Born and raised in Miami, I studied painting at the University of Miami. I have exhibited my work for over two decades in festivals all over South Florida. Specific accolades include awards in the Painting Category for South Miami, Coconut Grove, Fairchild, and as the selected poster artist for the Cultural Council’s Art in the Park. In addition to galleries and museums, my paintings have been nationally featured (wine bottles for Justin Vineyards, Paso Robles) and locally utilized (promotional materials for Jazz by the Bay). In addition to commissioned residential and commercial murals, I also have numerous works of art in private collections. My pieces are large and vibrant landscapes that typically feature the flora and fauna of South Florida.

What inspired you to become an art educator?

How long have you been teaching? Teaching was never the plan- it fell into my lap while helping a friend, and I’ve never looked back. I am a Nationally Board Certified Teacher with over twenty years of experience. Currently I am blessed to be the Academy Leader for the Visual & Performing Arts Magnet Program at Robert Morgan High School (RMEC).

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?

Oil on canvas is my medium of choice. I feel it offers the most versatility with the scale of my landscapes.

What is your proudest teaching moment?

My proudest teaching moment would have to be helping a new student from Haiti (that spoke NO English) win a Fairchild Challenge with a ball gown. She designed and constructed the dress completely out of tropical plants…and after many hot glue-gun blisters on both of our hands we pulled it off. Luckily one of the judges spoke French!

If you could have lunch with any artist in the world (living or not) who would it be and why?

Brunch with Bernini- the drama!

What are your personal and professional art dreams for the future?

As soon as my children are a bit older…I look forward to finishing my masters and resuming commissions. Oh- and getting some sleep!