Amanda Cooper is the new Advanced and AP Studio Art, Digital Art and Painting teacher her at Paint Branch. She grew up in Plano, Texas, the suburbs of Dallas. She received her Bachelor’s degree at BYU-Idaho, and earned her Masters at American University. In her spare time, Ms. Cooper does yoga, sees art shows, eats delicious food and spends time with her two year old daughter, Bleu. Always interested in art as a child, Ms. Cooper wanted to be an artist, an art therapist, a newscaster and a fashion designer. Her dream job is creating art full time and teaching on the side.

Ms. Cooper started teaching in 2008. Before coming to Paint Branch she taught in Texas at Rockwall Health High School, in Michigan at the Flagship Charter Academy in the Lansing School district, and is currently teaching as an Adjunct Professor at American University and George Washington-Corcoran School of Arts, teaching evening and weekend fine art courses in Washington D.C. Ms. Cooper became a teacher because “teaching someone how to create something beautiful is incredibly fulfilling” in her book. She is also inspired in her own practice by the things her students say and do. Ms. Cooper says “to even be a small part of my student’s self-exploration and growth is such an honor”. Ms. Cooper chose Paint Branch because she loves the community, and in her words “the student body is outstanding!” Ms. Cooper is looking forward to “seeing how far my students can progress in their skills! And seeing all their work hanging in our annual art show in May”. She will also be attending an Artist Residency program in May.