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Hi, I’m Rachel Sargent Mirus, a STEAM teaching artist and science writer. Originally trained in biology, I worked in research labs and museums across the country, and along the way I became interested in science writing and education.
I write about topics ranging from climate change to gene therapy and my art interests focus on drawing and painting subjects from nature. I am also passionate about using art to teach the life sciences. Drawing and writing encourage you to slow down and think about small details, like a beetle on a leaf, giving you the time and space to really see and understand. This practice of thoughtful observation is the skill I most want to teach: it is not only the foundation of effective illustration and description, but also how to think like a scientist.
To stay up to date with me, follow my brand page on Facebook: @rachelsargentscybercabinet
Or use my contact form to sign up for my email announcements: Contact Me
Writing
As a freelance writer I have written and edited primarily for Northern Woodlands and the Vermont Biosciences Alliance. Many of my Northern Woodlands pieces are online at https://northernwoodlands.org/
And check out my blog on this site: The Curious Creative
Please contact me if you are interested in discussing a writing project:
Teaching
As a teaching artist, I focus on integrating art and science. As a teacher, I aim to inspire observation, experimentation, and creativity in learners of all ages.
I've run workshops for organizations as diverse as North Branch Nature Center in Montpelier, the Harvard Museum of Natural History online, and Across Roads Center for the Arts in Waterbury Center. I’m on the Vermont Teaching Artist roster. You can read more about my curricula on the Teaching Artist page.
Please contact me if you are interested in hosting me:
Art
My artworks are inspired by a desire to communicate or illuminate natural science topics. I use a variety of media, but especially graphite, watercolor, and acrylic. Increasingly I'm experimenting with make-it-yourself media from foraged materials. You can see examples of my art in the themed galleries, accessed from the Gallery drop-down menu.
I have temporarily taken down my store, but I can still sell art, cards, and prints by arrangement, please don't hesitate to email:
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Artist Statement
My journery towards writing and teaching artistry has been a convoluted one. I trained in the life sciences, worked in research labs, got a degree in museum studies, and ended up freelancing. Through all the switchbacks of life, my desire to share my enthusiasm for natural history through art, writing, and education never wavered. Artists and scientists both rely on observation and creativity to achieve excellence, skills that everyone can benefit from their whole lives.
I have three goals with my classes: provide participants with specific tools and skills to help them grow and improve as artists, introduce fun, new, and interesting science content, and encourage a mindset of observation and exploration. Who ever you are and whatever you're interested in, lets learn together!
Looking for a class? I use Facebook to post current announcements: https://www.facebook.com/rachelsargentscybercabinet
Join my email list through my contact form: https://rachelscybercabinet.works/index.php/contact-me
Email me to discuss collaborating, art, or cool science: