ROYALL ELEMENTARY ART TEACHER
Krystal Fuentes
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
"I have to remind students often to allow yourself time to master something new."
How did you discover your interest in art? "I fell in love with art my kindergarten year with Kim Ryan at Greenwood Elementary School. She had a way of telling stories about artists that made the artwork come to life and she made sure we had a creative space that was our own. I remember when she told us the story about Vincent van Gogh when he cut off his ear. I was truly fascinated that someone who struggled with life still had a way to express themselves. This was an empowering moment to realize I could express myself no matter what at an early age. So, I would like to give a special thanks to my friend Kim!" 30
VIPMagSC.com
August 2021
Interview & photo by Bethany Rau
Were any of your family members artists? "Growing up, my mother was always making jewelry! The most fun was when she started nursing school and I had access to all of her highlighters, pens, and pencils. I always gravitated to the office supply section of any store rather than playing with toys or dolls."
Tell us about your college days.
"It was my Freshman year at College of Charleston that I enrolled in my first formal painting class. I then took every drawing, and sculpture class I could. I transferred to Francis Marion University and majored in Art Education. During my teaching career, I completed my Master’s Degree in Technology in Education at Lesley University."
