Q&A with Jessica Lenze, Drawing Teacher of the Year

We asked Lessonface Teachers of the Year about their process and goals for 2025. Here are the responses from Jessica Lenze, our drawing teacher of the year for 2024.

What are some key lessons your students have learned this year? Can you share a story about a student’s breakthrough or notable accomplishment?

It is always so incredible to see my students develop as artists and as people. This year, I watched one of my students in particular grow so much and become such a vibrant artist in a relatively short period of time. She’s grown not only in her skills and sense of style, but also in her sense of self and confidence. Every one of my students is incredible, so talented, and dedicated, and she shines as an example of what you can do when you apply what you learn from others while staying true to yourself!

What’s the funniest thing that happened during a lesson this year? We’d love to hear any other entertaining anecdotes you’d like to share!

One of my students loves to bring up the banana taped to a wall art piece, and we joke he could make millions if he applied himself the same way! Though our lessons focus primarily on technical development and personal style (and he is a very competent traditional artist), I’m certain he could punk us all quite successfully if he put his mind to it!

What’s one lasting takeaway you hope your students will carry with them from your teaching, even years from now?

Don’t ever let an art “tutorial” make you feel inferior! Many tutorials and “how to” art books skip over key steps and crucial fundamental knowledge. Odds are you have what it takes to be an excellent artist! Keep practicing what you love and get advice from experienced artists who create work you like.

Tell us about a memorable piece you created in your earlier years and how it is connected to your current artistic interests.

My junior year in college I began to explore the muscular and skeletal structure of the figure, and it transformed the way I draw figures. I drew several pieces that showcased the beauty of these features and to this day, I teach figure drawing with this anatomical approach. I find it to be very effective with my students and in my own art!

What are some of your most indispensable pieces of gear, for teaching or creating your art? What are some gear items that you wish all your students had?

When it comes to art supplies, a good range of drawing pencils is more important than the brand. I recommend a set of 2H, 4H, 6H and 2B, 4B, 6B drawing pencils, an eraser, and a metal sharpener. Also, a metal ruler is an excellent tool if you can get one.

What’s a skill or idea you’re excited to explore in 2025? What exciting goals are your students chasing in 2025?

A personal goal of mine for 2025 is to start creating free online art education videos. My students have also been crushing their goals and I am so proud of them! One has been developing a portfolio for school, another pursuing art on the side while working his way through college, and another has been creating stickers, masks, commission pieces, and digital works in a prolific hot streak of creativity. All my students have blown me away with their hard work, personal progress, awards, and accomplishments.

Learn more with Jessica Lenze.