Some people may think an English Teacher already has enough on their plate, grading essays or reading books, to even consider spending time working as an artist, but that is not the case for English Teacher Scott Glass. Not only does Glass teach Humanities and Film Studies, but his art was also featured in an exhibit at the Waukegan Public Library throughout April.

Glass began focusing on 3D art eight years ago and believes he has continued to produce art because of the feeling it provides him with.  Glass began his artistic journey when a friend and former art teacher, Kurt Webb, taught Glass about woodblock printing, an art medium in which shapes or designs are carved into wood and then spread with ink using a glass pane. These are then used as stamps on canvas or paper. 

Now, Glass focuses more on stencil art, which follows a similar process as woodblock printing. With stencil art, a piece is carved out of wood, which Glass finds easier to create than woodblock printing. This art is satisfying due to the peace it brings him during a busy day, Glass explained. 

“Most of us tend to be so overwhelmed by [everyday activities], our attention is constantly [scattered],” Glass explains. “ [Art] is almost kind of like a mental health thing [and a way] to disengage and disconnect,” Glass said.

By centering his art on musicians, Glass is able to channel an interest of his, he shared. He finds a picture of a musician and usually adds a small section of lyrics as well. 

Pieces of Glass’ art are also on display in the English Department, English Teacher David Knudson said. Glass has found an interesting way to blend both of his passions for English and art to benefit others.

“His art beautifies the office, just by its presence,” Knudson said.

 Since COVID-19, Glass has been the sponsor of The Public Art Collaborative Club, Glass explained.

“[Public Art Collaborative Club is]  something that anybody can [participate in], whether they are self-taught, not taught, have skill, or don’t have skill. It’s just one of those things we have always for some reason [felt a necessity for], so we should try to fill the halls with it,” Glass said. 

 Even while juggling his teaching duties, Glass doesn’t hold back his creative side. Glass has developed a loving passion that he explains can be beneficial to him and others throughout the years.

“You know, the whole point of art is this intrinsic human thing,”  Glass said.