Lauren Violet
Lauren Violet plays a key role in shaping the daily creative experience within DAVA’s Open Studio. Through her leadership, she designs accessible, open-ended art projects that encourage exploration across drawing, painting, and foundational ceramics. Her approach empowers students to develop technical skills while honoring individual creativity and ensuring every young artist’s voice is supported and celebrated.
Admin and Open Studio Coordinator
Lauren Violet teaches a wide range of two- and three-dimensional art media in DAVA’s Open Studio. While she specializes in drawing and painting, she has expanded her practice to include pottery and clay hand-building, helping children develop foundational ceramics skills. Her students benefit from learning effective techniques while also having the freedom to pursue their own interests and explore subject matter that excites them.
Lauren first came to DAVA as a volunteer while working toward a post-baccalaureate teaching certificate in K–12 Art Education at Metropolitan State University of Denver. She continued volunteering for five years after completing her degree before joining the staff as an Open Studio teaching artist. Lauren brings more than four decades of art-making experience to the classroom.
Her personal art practice focuses on animals, plants, and the natural environment, expressed through both realistic and abstract approaches. At DAVA, Lauren designs engaging and accessible projects that are intentionally open-ended, allowing each student’s work to reflect their own creativity. She believes every child has a unique voice worth celebrating and works to ensure students are empowered with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to express their ideas through art.
Artist Statement
As a lifelong artist who thinks and communicates through drawing, painting, and sculpture, I love sharing the creative process with children who are excited about making art. Earlier in my career, I spent eighteen years working as a tattoo artist, a role that constantly challenged me to use my drawing skills to create dynamic, original designs on the spot. That experience naturally shaped the work I do today. As an art teacher, I draw on my creativity to design projects that are fun, engaging, and accessible for students of all ages and skill levels.
- Lauren Violet
“Lauren creates thoughtful, open-ended learning experiences that allow each student’s creativity to shine. Her dedication to nurturing individual expression strengthens the welcoming and exploratory spirit of Open Studio. As an artist, her careful linework on unusual surfaces always amazes me. ”
-Priscilla Montoya, Executive Director