Instructor Zachary Pelham began teaching with RISD Continuing Education in 2024 when he moved back to Massachusetts after spending several years in Chicago, attending graduate school and teaching at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Zach began teaching for RISD Pre-College, and now is an instructor for several CE adult and youth programs.

Zach strives to demonstrate techniques and artistry as clearly and accessibly as possible, meeting every student at their level of experience. He is excited about the geographic reach of RISD CE’s online format and values the opportunity for students and instructors with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and physical abilities to collaborate with and inspire one another.

“I hope students will leave with a better understanding of the class topic, but also feeling empowered to make art. I want students to feel like they can be an artist, whether it’s casually as a hobby or professionally. I want my students to know that being creative can be a meaningful part of anyone’s life.”

Zach’s class is a space for both interested and interesting people. This winter and spring, Zach will be teaching courses for both youth and adult learners:

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Gallery of Zachary Pelham’s artwork