Educator, Graphic Designer, Creative guy
Two years ago, I made the transition from the creative design industry into education, and haven't looked back. After 20 years in the creative industry, I can confidently say that teaching is my natural calling.
My journey spans every phase of the creative production pipeline, from hands-on work as a graphic designer, illustrator, artist, and sign maker, to technical execution as a printer, production artist, and production manager, and high-level leadership as a business owner, creative director, and team leader. I am deeply passionate about passing this lifetime of commercial knowledge and industry expertise to the next generation of artists, empowering them to bridge the gap between creative talent and professional success. Thank you for viewing my work, and have a great day.
Licenses:
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VocTech Visual Arts 9-14
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Academic Visual Arts prek-8
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Academic Visual Arts 9-12
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Academic History 9-12
Teaching Testimonials
"Mr. Patno is our trusted adult and is highly regarded in our program. Our program feels a deep connection with him, which we feel is crucial for our group's culture. His expertise and critique in traditional art, sketch work, and portraits was some of the best instruction we have ever received and helped us grow in the program more than anyone else." - DMC Class of 2027
"He consistently creates an engaging and encouraging classroom environment, we all feel supported to express ourselves. Throughout his employment, we have not only built our design and media skills, but also our real world skills. He pushes us to improve, he gives thoughtful feedback and reliable advice." - Student, DMC Class of 2026
"He has shown each and every one of us acceptance of our personalities, sexual orientations, gender identities, ethnicities, religions, backgrounds, and everything else; while also encouraging us to be ourselves and go above and beyond to show the world our creativity. On top of all of these things, he offers real-world experience and advice from his time working with Disney and his connections to others in the Design and Media field. He has opened up more opportunities for students to learn the basics of art/design and the ability to learn different mediums of art." - Student, DMC Class of 2026
"...One of the most meaningful examples of his impact has been through art. My daughter once dreaded drawing. She was convinced that she wasn’t talented and often became discouraged before she even began. Mr. P. saw something in her that she could not yet see herself. Through his patience, encouragement, and unwavering belief in her abilities, he helped transform frustration into confidence. She often now draws at home because she purely enjoys it. Today, she approaches her artwork with pride and excitement, and she discovered a creative side of herself that she may never have explored without his guidance." - Parent, DMC Class of 2028
" Mr. P. has genuinely changed my school life. He's made me want to learn, want to succeed, want to be a better person. He genuinely inspires me as well as a bunch of other students. He always puts his students' well-being before himself every single day." - Student, DMC Class of 2028
I was voted "Most Likely to be Called Dad" by the graduating senior class 2026.
The seniors held a pep rally during their final week of school this year, I was invited along with other teachers who won awards. It was a great honor for me to receive this. I've strived to not only be a great teacher to my students, but also a role model and positive influence on their lives as they transition into adulthood, and to be recognized for that really meant a great deal to me.
Lessons
These are some examples of lessons I've given. I try to give my students the freedom to explore their own interests and creativity inside the constraints of the lesson or content we are working on.
How To Draw A Face Exercise
Anatomy Reference Guide
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