Sonja Henderson

Artist Bio

Sonja Henderson received her M.F.A. degree from the University of California at Berkeley where she concentrated on sculpture and installation. While at Berkeley, she taught undergraduate students, developed curricula and led a community-based arts and education summer program for at-risk youth. She has also taught and developed classes on media literacy and the effect of consumerism on culture, race, gender and youth. Henderson has taught at her own sculpture studio, led numerous residencies and acted as lead artist for large-scale mural projects in two Chicago public schools. In addition, Sonja’s work has received honors including the International Sculpture Award for outstanding student achievement in contemporary sculpture, the African American Achievement Award and the Eisner Prize, awarded as the highest honor for creativity.

Educational Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is one of learning by doing. I believe in the exploration of materials and meaning. Experience is everything. I believe that the classroom as well as the studio should allow self-expression and reflection. I am a process artist, which means that the decisions made when making an art object is as important and meaningful as the art piece itself. I encourage my students to experiment with materials, to push their ideas to the limit and to think always about the content of their work.

Links

www.sonjahenderson.com
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