MR PAYNE'S ART ROOM

Hello,

I’m Mr. Payne, and I’ve been teaching middle and high school art for the past 17 years. My journey into art education is a bit unique—I spent 15 years working as a commercial artist. I’m a 24-year veteran of the U.S. Navy (Navy Chief, Navy Pride!) That real-world experience helped shape how I approach teaching: grounded in practical skills, professional expectations, and creative exploration.

I hold three associate degrees (two in art) and two bachelor’s degrees in art. My areas of personal focus are printmaking and ceramics, and I bring those passions into the classroom every day. I design my art room to function like a working studio—structured, creative, and hands-on. Students are encouraged to think like artists, solve problems visually, and build confidence in their creative voices.

Technology is a key part of my curriculum. Whether we’re working with digital tools or traditional materials, I believe students need to be comfortable using both to thrive as 21st-century artists.