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My Story:

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Portfolio Artist Statement:

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In honor of idk conception, Giles has created a new series titled, “Choose to” which is heavily devoted to and inspired by his former students. For over a decade, Giles has been giving graduating seniors a letter of hope, advice, and encouragement. This letter has seen many changes, as its author tried his best to keep up with his own advice. The series was created by scanning 35mm film, then decontextualized with artificial intelligence editing, then postered with digital text taken from this graduation letter. The purpose isn’t to just reflect the loose-leaf lessons for the viewer, but a call to grow alongside each other and to follow your own advice - to choose to create, encourage, fail, share and to stay grateful through it all.

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Notable Accomplishments:

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  • National Medal of Art Education - Scholastic Arts & Writing (2022)

  • "Fort Worth's Top Teachers" by Fort Worth Magazine (2014)​

  • FWISD's Angela D. Paulos Teaching Chair of Excellence Award (2017) ​​

  • Member of the TAC (Teachers Art Council) at the Modern Museum of Fort Worth​ (2016-2020)

  • Member of TAEA (Texas Art Educator Association) with many successes at the annual VASE (Visual Art and Scholastic Event) competition (2011-2023)

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Andrew J. Giles is a multi-disciplinary Artist, Designer, and award-winning Educator. After earning his BFA from University of North Texas, Giles began teaching photography at Appel Farm Arts Center in NJ. In between summer camp, Giles traveled extensively across North America and Europe writing poetry and exploring light. Giles later settled in Fort Worth, Texas to raise his children and continue his career as an educator. As the VPA Department Chair for Arlington Heights High School, Giles collaboratively built a highly recognized photography program that created student success in local, state, and national art competitions.

By founding idk collective in 2023, Giles hopes to grow this success from the classroom to the community in supporting emerging artists strengthen their portfolios and enhance creative opportunities. 

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