Grace Bae, a PhD student in art education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and an educator at Krannert Art Museum, blends art, education, and mental well-being. As an art therapist with experience in community settings like psychiatric units and shelters, she has observed art’s transformative power in helping individuals find hope through creative expression. As a graduate assistant at the museum since August 2023, Grace has created opportunities for all ages to engage with art, fostering emotional well-being and social connections through community events and field trips.
Assistant Director for Community Engagement and Learning Rachel Lauren Storm sat down with Graduate Assistant Grace Bae.
RLS: Grace, tell us a little about yourself and your journey into art education.
GB: Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. In my childhood, my classmates often came to me to learn how to make origami flowers and draw portraits. Teaching and creating art with others have always come naturally to me. I’ve been interested in using art as a healing tool, which led me to study art therapy for my master’s. Over time, my focus has evolved to integrating art therapy into art education to promote students’ mental well-being and growth.
RLS: What types of engagement and learning work have you helped make possible in your role at the museum?
GB: My work at Krannert Art Museum has been diverse, from community events to K–16 field trips. I’ve worked with seniors and trauma survivors in expressive arts groups, where participants used art to express themselves. Art allows people to express thoughts and feelings without words, and I found it fascinating to see individuals start with hesitation, only to become immersed in their creative process with confidence. Through shared experiences and reflections, participants supported one another, fostering connections and a sense of belonging. At the museum, I facilitate environments where people can express themselves, enhance mental health, and build social bonds.
RLS: How does this work connect with your research and other scholarly work?
GB: My research focuses on using art to support mental health and personal development, especially for students from underrepresented communities. Krannert Art Museum has served as a place for community members, students, and visitors from around the world. I work at the museum to create spaces where people of different backgrounds and interests can engage in art. These experiences help inform my research on how art museums and community programs can promote emotional well-being, social connections, and enriching learning.
RLS: Has your experience working at the museum influenced your thinking about museums and art education?
GB: While I’ve taught art in various settings, working at Krannert Art Museum has broadened my understanding of museums and art education. Initially, I thought museum educators’ roles were to guide visitors in understanding art. I’ve learned that art educators should prioritize engagement and interaction over one-way teaching. This shift in perspective has made me see museums as spaces for active participation, not just passive learning. I’ve also seen how this museum integrates art with other disciplines, such as music, dance, and architecture, offering students broader learning opportunities.
