Throughout fifteen years of creative experience and artistic practice…
Sarah Brewington Baarns has worked among the (seemingly irreconcilable) worlds of both academic fine art and corporate creativity. As a Professor of Visual Art and Photography at Polk State College, she brings this diverse background to create a holistic approach to education that transcends traditional boundaries.
Sarah completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design (with an entirely accidental minor in Art History) from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, as well as her Master of Fine Arts degree in Art Practice from the School of Visual Arts in New York, New York. Her mentors at both institutions sparked her passion for photography, leading her to accrue a wide variety of photographic experiences.
Her teaching philosophy centers on blending artistic expression with practical applications, preparing students for both creative fulfillment and professional success. Drawing from her extensive professional background—having worked as a corporate photographer for Publix Super Markets, held adjunct positions at three colleges, produced a sizable portfolio of freelance work, exhibited nationally as a fine art photographer, and led a digital marketing agency's media team as their department manager—Sarah provides students with insights that bridge the gap between academic theory and industry demands.
What sets Sarah's approach apart is her commitment to integrating diverse perspectives and disciplines. Students in her classroom not only master photography and visual art techniques but also learn to position their creative work within broader cultural and commercial contexts. Through collaborative projects, community engagement, and industry partnerships, she provides students with authentic learning experiences that prepare them for the complexities of today's creative landscape.
Sarah's goal is to empower students to become versatile, thoughtful artists who can adapt to changing technologies while maintaining a strong personal vision—professionals who understand both the poetry of visual expression and the pragmatics of creative careers.