About Dr. Heather Teems

Artist • Art Educator • Author • Therapeutic Art Practitioner

Dr. Heather Teems is an artist, Montessori educator, author, and therapeutic art practitioner living in Charleston, South Carolina. Through The Joy in Color, she brings together her love of painting and teaching to help children explore color, express feelings, and discover the joy of creating.

Heather holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of New England, with a focus on arts integration; a Master of Education in Montessori Education from Lander University; and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from the University of South Carolina. She brings 20 years of experience in Montessori, private, and public schools to her work.

Inspired by nature and life’s artistic experiences, her primary-color children’s book series combines rhyming stories with imagery drawn from her original paintings. The red-haired girl and black dog featured in the illustrations are inspired by her daughter and her daughter’s dog.

From me:

Hi! I'm Heather, an artist,  art teacher, mom and  grandmother known as "JOY."  I live in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina, where the coast, history and natural beauty inspire much of my artwork. I believe art is for everyone it doesn't have to be perfect it simply needs to come from the heart, whether through painting, drawing, sculpting or any other creative outlet, I hope to encourage both children and adults to discover the joy, peace, and healing that creativity can bring. My mission is to inspire others to create in whatever way feels meaningful and therapeutic to them. If my work helps someone find a moment of happiness confidence or connection, then I've accomplished exactly what I set out to do. Thank you for  visiting and being a part of my creative journey!