James Hendricks


Instagram: @artistjameshendricks

EDUCATOR CV

Teaching Artist | Art Educator | Inclusive Program Designer

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Inclusive art educator and interdisciplinary artist with 25+ years of experience designing and leading community-based, trauma-informed, and neurodivergent-affirming arts programs. Specializing in accessible curriculum development, staff training, and expressive arts integration across museum, after-school, nonprofit, and therapeutic settings. Known for deeply empathetic, mess-positive spaces that empower creative voice and emotional safety. Skilled in both grassroots outreach and institutional programming, with experience across all ages (PreK to adult) and abilities.

PROGRAM DESIGN & LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

  • Experimental Image Lab (EIL)

Founder & Curriculum Designer | 2025-Present

  • Designed an original studio-based educational framework exploring experimental image-making, memory, material investigation, and contemporary visual practice.

  • Developed modular teaching protocols adaptable for museums, community arts organizations, schools, and independent workshops.

  • Created comprehensive curriculum including lesson plans, process guides, assignments, worksheets, assessment tools, and instructor resources.

  • Integrated drawing, collage, photography, transfer processes, installation, printmaking, and mixed media into accessible, process-based learning experiences.

  • Designed the framework for learners of diverse ages, abilities, and experience levels, emphasizing experimentation, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving.

  • Create & Connect – Inclusive Arts Program

Founder & Lead Teaching Artist (2023–Present)

Monthaven Arts Center, Hendersonville, TN

  • - Developed a trauma-informed, accessible art program for neurodivergent youth, particularly those on the autism spectrum

  • - Designed full rollout plan including curriculum, staff trainings, sensory accommodations, and emergency protocols

  • - Facilitated family engagement, community outreach, and intake systems

  • - Currently in pilot phase with plans for expansion as a mobile/portable program across Tennessee and Missouri

  • - Integrates visual art, behavior support strategies, and therapeutic art practices for PreK through adult learners

  • Afterglow – Queer Community Art & Recovery Project

Founder & Artistic Director (2024–Present)

  • - Peer-led expressive arts programming for LGBTQIA+ adults navigating grief, identity, and recovery

  • - Developed trauma-aware workshops exploring ritual, storytelling, and soft drag performance

  • - Designed for intergenerational participants (ages 18 to 80+); program housed within broader queer recovery art practice

  • The Village Art Program

Program Director (2015–2017)

Knoxville, TN

  • - Led inclusive, trauma-informed art programming for youth in transitional housing and crisis care

  • - Designed weekly art curriculum integrating SEL (social-emotional learning), storytelling, and materials exploration

  • - Trained volunteers and collaborated with partner agencies for wraparound support

  • Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts

Course Instructor, Youth & Outreach Programs (2014–2018)

Gatlinburg, TN

  • - Taught printmaking, sculpture, and mixed media courses for youth camps, Title I schools, and special education classrooms

  • - Developed adaptive lesson plans for learners with behavioral challenges and developmental delays

  • - Integrated community-building activities into each session

SPECIAL NEEDS & SENSORY-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE

- 25+ years working with ASD youth and students with sensory, cognitive, or behavioral differences
- Developed and led inclusive classes in schools, museums, and independent studios
- Created emergency-preparedness documents, caregiver communication templates, and staff safety guides
- Designed sensory art projects with layered entry points (visual, tactile, kinesthetic)

TEACHING ARTIST WORK (SELECTED)

- Kre-8-tiv Kids (Community Art Outreach, TN)
- Roane County Schools (After-School Arts Integration)
- The Children's Art Museum of Oak Ridge
- Lowe Mill Arts Center (Huntsville, AL)
- Professional Development Workshops for educators, therapists, and youth workers

GRANTS, COLLABORATIONS & HIGHLIGHTS

- Arts Build Communities Grant Recipient
- TN Arts Commission Programming Grantee
- Residency with Sarasvarti Studios – Recovery-Based Art Curriculum Design
- Partnership Development: Museums, Crisis Shelters, Behavioral Centers, and LGBTQ+ organizations