Alumni Artist Visits to Teach

Fine artist, published author, and illustrator Jazzmin Imani Cox-Cáceres ’19 made two virtual visits to GDS last week to share creative inspiration with the GDS community. On Friday, April 9, LMS art teacher Jenn Heffernan and 2nd grade teacher Azureé Harrison hosted Jazzmin for a full 2nd grade combined art/author visit. She gave a fantastic, engaging presentation to the 2nd grade explaining the process of creating her children's book When Art Is Loved, which was the product of her Senior Quest project here at GDS. She touched on topics that 2nd graders are exploring in their homerooms and in art class, such as identity, self portraiture, and representation in museums and the art world.

Jazzmin also talked about making mistakes along the way—an important lesson for students, teachers, and parents.

Jenn said, “It was exceptional!! The kids asked thoughtful questions and seemed so excited to get to meet her.”

Second grade teacher Laura Nakatani noted how much of the presentation connected with the 2nd grade curriculum. Second grade teacher Danielle Bernstein agreed. “Not only did it go perfectly well with our identity study, but it was an overall pleasure to hear from Jazzmin for both the kids and myself,” she said.

On Saturday, April 10, Jazzmin taught a Family Painting Class as part of the month-long series of Alumni Virtual Reunion events. With alumni, current students, and GDS staff in attendance, Jazzmin taught mixed media portraiture. Families used materials they had at home, following a list of options Jazzmin provided in advance. As participants watched and painted, Jazzmin talked about her process, tips for staying inspired creatively, and the technical components that go into making a great portrait. She also talked about the lasting influence of her art teachers at GDS and some of the guiding lessons she carries forward from them.

More about Jazzmin
As a GDS student, Jazzmin participated in multiple High School art shows, won several Scholastic awards for her art, helped lead her varsity softball team to championship victories, and was a member of the GDS contingent to the Student Diversity Leadership Conference. As a graduating senior in 2019, Jazzmin received the Director’s Award, an honor given each year to the senior who best exemplifies the founding ideals and values of Georgetown Day School: first, a belief in the integrity and worth of each individual; second, a respect for the community and the diversity it offers; and third, a commitment to the goal of a lifelong love of learning. Jazzmin is currently studying art at Brown University.

Learn more and purchase artwork on her website »
Follow Jazzmin’s art on Instagram @jazzminimani.