Sheila Berenson

I’m a visual artist, writer, and lifelong educator based in Brookline, Massachusetts. My career has always been about creativity and curiosity—two things I believe are essential to understanding the world. I began my professional journey as a teacher after earning my Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1973 and my Master of Education in Reading from the University of Texas–Austin in 1976.

Teaching showed me how deeply literacy shapes a child’s ability to think and connect ideas. I went on to teach at several universities, including the University of Kansas, Wichita State, and Framingham State University, where I led graduate programmes for educators in countries such as Thailand, South Korea, and Guatemala. I also founded a children’s museum to create hands-on learning experiences for families in my community.

After retiring from education, I turned fully to art—something I’ve always loved. My paintings and sculptures have been featured in juried exhibitions and recognised for their originality and emotional depth. I see art as another form of teaching, one that invites people to pause, reflect, and see differently. Through every chapter of my life, I’ve stayed committed to learning, creating, and inspiring curiosity in others.