For Mrs. Meissner, art has always been more than just a subject, it’s a way of life. “I’ve always felt like the most authentic version of myself in a studio,” she shares. That deep connection is what inspired her to become an art teacher, guiding students to discover “peace and authenticity through creation.” Even after years in the classroom, her passion hasn’t faded. She continues to take studio classes and maintain her own artistic practice, modeling for students that art is truly a lifelong pursuit.
In her classroom, Mrs. Meissner emphasizes what she calls “the power of change through creation.” She explains that when students fully engage in the process of making art, it can slowly transform them. “Art can bring about self-discovery. It can be a voice. It can heal,” she says. Whether that transformation happens during a project or later in life, she hopes to spark curiosity that stays with her students long after they leave her class.
That mindset is especially important for students who may not feel confident in their artistic abilities. Mrs. Meissner works to break down the idea that art is not about perfection or grades. By introducing a wide variety of mediums and styles, she encourages students to find what resonates with them personally. “There’s room for everyone at the table,” she says. “I feel at my core that everyone is capable of making meaningful art.”
Students clearly feel that impact. Colton Elbers described her as “encouraging, creative, and understanding,” explaining that “she makes you feel like your ideas actually matter.”
Mrs. Meissner’s love for teaching IB Art comes from its inclusivity. Unlike traditional art history, which she says often focused on European and male artists, IB Art highlights diverse perspectives and experiences. This global approach is something she values deeply and brings into her teaching.
Her professional background also shapes her classroom in unique ways. With experience in graphic design and product development, she blends creativity with technical skill, helping students build strong foundations in drawing, color theory, and sculpture. She also emphasizes the importance of work ethic and meeting deadlines—skills essential for anyone considering a career in art.
Outside of teaching, Mrs. Meissner continues to explore her own creativity. She has a “deep love for clay,” creating functional tableware and sculpted murals, while also returning to oil painting with detailed still lifes inspired by Dutch Vanitas. Her artistic growth is fueled by constant curiosity, reading, traveling, and learning new techniques around the world. From silversmithing in Mexico to studying ceramics in Japan, she actively seeks out new experiences. This summer, she plans to attend Art Basel in Switzerland and explore the art and architecture of Italy.
Elbers describes how he always notices her passion. “She’s always talking about the art she’s learning or places she’s been,” he said. “It makes you realize art isn’t just a class, but something you can keep doing your whole life.”
When asked what advice she gives aspiring artists, Mrs. Rachel turns to a quote by Henri Matisse: “Don’t wait for inspiration. It comes while one works.” She encourages students to stay disciplined and keep creating, even when they don’t feel inspired. “You’ve got to work through being tired or uninspired,” she says. “As you work, the magic will come.”
Despite her artistic path, Mrs. Meissner admits her journey wasn’t always so clear. “I originally thought I wanted to be a lawyer,” she laughs, a choice she now sees as completely different from her true passions of peace, nature, and art.
At the heart of everything she does is a simple hope for her students: from an artistic perspective, she wants them to be able to appreciate meaningful works of art wherever they go. But more importantly, she hopes they find something deeper. “I hope they seek and find peace,” she says. “I’ve sent a lot of good vibes into the universe to my students over the years, and I hope they know they are surrounded by people who care.”
In Mrs. Meissner’s classroom, art isn’t just about creating, it’s about discovering who you are and who you can become.
