About the Author

Mariana VanDerMolen

Hi! My name is Mariana VanDerMolen, and I am a writer for the AOEU Magazine. I have been involved with Art Education for five plus years and have taught art from grades K–8. Real-life skills, language learning strategies, and therapeutic practices lie at the heart of my instruction.

In 2020, I turned to AOEU courses to get my bearings in the world of virtual instruction. This turned into two years of honing my instructional practices, teaching philosophy, and research skills through the AOEU Master’s Program. With my degree in hand and the confidence I have built, I am eager to help you in any way I can!

When I am not writing or teaching, I like to use my aesthetic instincts to design and decorate the interior of my home. Visual journaling, scrapbooking, and video editing are other ways my creativity shines! You will often find me reading, spending quality time with my cat, or exploring the various corners of the tropical island I call home.

I am excited to be a part of the AOEU team, and I look forward to growing with you!