Casey Chatham

About Casey

I grew up in Pegram, TN, a small town just outside of Nashville, TN. Growing up, I was interested in academics as well as creativity. When I wasn't studying, I was making. My grandma was instrumental in my development as a maker. She allowed me to be curious, encouraged me to be ambitious, and taught me to sew my own dresses, stitch up a nine patch, and pinch the edge of a handmade pie crust.

My senior year of high school, I began taking Fine Arts courses more seriously. However, I had already made my mind up to major in Nursing at Lipscomb University the following year. While studying for my degree in Nursing, I continued taking Fine Arts and Art History electives.

Nine years into my nursing career, I arrived at an opportunity to reconsider where I was at and start something new--something closer to my heart. I had already created a stationery brand, Hannah Bloom, selling cards, notebooks, calendars, and more with my own designs online, at craft fairs, and in local Nashville boutiques. But I wanted to do something more than just sell my work. So, I became an art teacher, sharing my skills and love for creating with children, just as my grandma had done for me.

After earning a Master's in Teaching in Art Education from Belmont University, I began my teaching career at Glencliff Elementary School in Metro Nashville Public Schools. I so enjoy exploring art making and art history with children.

My favorite teachable moments usually begin when a student starts a question with "Can I....?" There's a spark in their eye, and I know they have an original idea! It is a special moment for both of us when I let them "break the rules" of an assignment in order to bring something of their own to life. I love to support them while allowing them flexibility and choice. I believe art can be many things, from personal creative expression to beautiful functional items. That's why I teach them a broad variety of things, everything from the "high arts" of painting, drawing, and sculpture to "crafts" such as knitting, weaving, and sewing. All types of making are important to explore.

In my own creative time, I can't get enough of exploring new things! I love the excitement of a new tool. Finding out what I can do is half the fun! My greatest love has always been sewing, and I am currently working on a "Quarantine Quilt"--a collaborative project between myself and three family members, including my grandma. I also enjoy painting, knitting, weaving, making ceramics, and marbling paper. I always have a few projects going at once and a few more in queue. If only I could have a few more hours in the day!

I am also the wife of an educator and the mother of a five-month-old daughter. I enjoy watching my Pippa grow daily, and I love providing her with opportunities to explore and learn. I can't wait to see what her interests are as she develops!

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I am seeking opportunities to share my love of art and help others to discover their own creative potential.