Discovering Joy in Art
Susan Howland’s Creative Journey at the Y
With a passion for teaching and a love for learning, YMCA art instructor Susan Howland creates a welcoming space where adults can explore their creativity, build community, and unlock their artistic potential.
A Lifelong Love for Teaching
Susan Howland’s teaching journey began early—at the age of 16, she unofficially gave her first art lesson while on a boat. Despite a language barrier with two German-speaking children, Susan’s passion for art transcended words, as she used visual language to teach them to draw. This moment sparked her lifelong love for teaching and showed her that art could connect people across all boundaries.
“I come from a line of teachers—my mother, her father. Teaching comes naturally to me, and it was during that moment on the boat that I realized how universal art truly is,” she reflects.
The Path to the YMCA
Susan’s passion for art has been a constant throughout her life. Awarded a college scholarship to pursue her craft, she immersed herself in various art forms. Her professional journey led her to teach at a local art center, but it was the YMCA of Frederick County that became her artistic home.
“The Y has always been a healthy, kind space for me—I’ve swum here all my life. When I saw the variety of art classes being offered, I knew it would be the perfect place to teach and share my love for learning,” she says.
At the Y, Susan found the freedom to mold her classes to suit her students’ needs and abilities. She relishes the opportunity to make learning fun while nurturing the unique talents of each individual.
Creating a Supportive Community of Learners
What makes the YMCA a special place for Susan is the Y’s mission to respect and honor every individual, no matter where they are on their journey. In her classes, Susan mirrors that mission by creating a space where her students can feel respected, supported, and free to explore their creativity without judgment.
“A space of caring and openness, with respect and without judgment—that’s the perfect environment to create art and grow as an artist,” Susan says.
Susan finds joy in watching her students form connections, share ideas, and encourage each other. The camaraderie in her classes is palpable. “They love being challenged and love complaining together about the challenge,” she laughs. “It’s a privilege to experience their friendships in class.”
The Reward of Teaching Adult Learners
Susan especially enjoys working with adult learners, who often bring a sense of bravery and openness to her classes. She acknowledges that adults can sometimes fear making mistakes more than children do, but she views their willingness to step out of their comfort zone as an admirable strength.
“We start with what they understand, and then we move slightly beyond their comfort zone. That growth is what makes teaching so rewarding,” she explains. Each student, whether new to art or experienced, is treated as an individual and given the space to flourish at their own pace.
A Memorable Moment in the Studio
One of Susan’s proudest moments recently came during a watercolor class, where she witnessed her students finally relax and embrace the playfulness of the medium. “Once they let go and started to play, watercolor opened up to them in a whole new way,” she recalls. It’s moments like these that make Susan’s work at the Y so fulfilling.
Encouraging Creative Exploration
In her Thurmont classes, Susan guides her students through a variety of artistic explorations, from defining light and shadow in drawing to experimenting with color theory in watercolors. Acrylics, oils, and even printmaking are also part of her dynamic curriculum.
“Seeing is at the heart of what we do—both in realistic and abstract painting. It’s about training the eye to see differently,” she shares.
For newcomers to art, Susan promises an enjoyable experience in a supportive environment. Her classes are designed to be a balance of learning, fun, and community. “They’ll enjoy themselves, their fellow students, and the process of discovery,” she adds.
Unlock Your Creativity at the Y
Through her art classes at the YMCA of Frederick County, Susan Howland offers more than just technical instruction—she creates a nurturing space where adults can find joy in learning, build friendships, and explore their creative potential. Whether you’re new to painting or a seasoned artist, you’ll find a welcoming community and endless opportunities to grow under her guidance.
