Statement Of Purpose
Launched in 2023 as an initiative to support Teaching Artists in Northern California, Teaching Artists Preparation, and Instruction (TAP IN) provides tools, resources, and training at the intersection of arts and education. TAP IN is building a network of teaching artists equipped to enhance, integrate, or teach their art form as a curriculum. TAP IN is a DreamMaker Project of The Ink People Center for the Arts.
Vision
TAP IN envisions that the arts and culture sector, philanthropists, policymakers, educational institutions, the healthcare system, juvenile halls, and all communities will recognize the importance of the teaching artist profession and centers teaching artists because of a shared commitment to sustaining a culture of equity, inclusion, and justice through the arts.
Mission
To provide teaching artist training and development for both novice and experienced teaching artists in Humboldt County to prepare them for residencies, arts integration, educational performances, and artistic collaborations.
We’re Advocating For Teaching Artists
- Equitable representation
- Access to tools, resources, and training
- Advancing pay equity
We’re Here To Support You
- Coaching
- Training
- Immersion
About
The Resilient Artists Workshop (R.A.W.) series is a free community coaching series that weaves the teaching artist profession throughout history and its current relevance. The workshops are offered both online and in person and is open to the public. The philosophy taught in the series will support artists in deepening artistic practice, resilience as a storyteller in the community, improving cultural proficiency, and increasing the capacity for inclusive, equitable practices through the arts.
In your corner…
Dionna Ndlovu
Project Director & Coach
Dionna’s coaching practice began in 2018 alongside Sarah Peters Gonzalez and grew statewide in California. Her human-centered coaching practice is rooted in resilience, artistry, and community. She supports each artist where they are, honors their unique voice, and strengthens the path forward.
What are artists saying?
Being coached by Dionna is helping me to build the structure and discipline I have been seeking to authentically embody my artful practice. I am deeply appreciative of the support and guidance in creating sustainability as a teaching artist.
— Sarai Bordeaux, Poet & Model
Dionna possesses a contemporary and uplifting perspective on education and the practice of art. Her extensive experience in diverse art and cultural environments across the country equips her to convey a comprehensive vision of collaborative work within artistic communities.
— Denise Villalva, Science-Art Educator & Community Organizer
Dionna is a creative force beyond measure. Dionna’s heartfelt dedication and knowledge of the arts met by her adept creative skills, shine brightly through any project she take part in. If you were to find yourself so lucky, you would be beyond fortunate to have Dionna Ndlovu on your team.
— Stephanie Thomas, Visual Artist
Dionna, teaches authenticity and strength. I am grateful for her mentorship as it awaken my creative spirit.
— Tiffany Ramirez, Dancer
Dionna is a charismatic & empowering coach. She helped me with my confidence and breaking down my goals into actionable steps.
— Bee, Visual Artist
Dionna is a courageous community arts advocate, she brings her passion to coaching and is not afraid to push you to your limits to succeed.
— Lela Annotto Arts, Performance & Multi-media Artist
Let’s Hear From You
Our Contact:
627 3rd Street, Eureka, CA 95501
tapin@inkpeople.org
Teaching Artists Directory
Coming Soon
Dionna Ndlovu 