Faculty Spotlight: Ian Factor

College/ Degrees: BFA from Syracuse University; MFA from New York Academy of Art

Years of service: Three years at Fryeburg Academy

Subject(s): Studio Art

Other roles at FA: Director of the Studio Art Internship Program, Director of the Arts Certificate Program

Fun fact: Mr. Factor is a sixth-degree black belt, which makes him a master-level martial artist

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Background?

Mr. Factor grew up in Boston, but he spent lots of time in the Bridgton area as a young person.  He started his formal training in both visual arts and martial arts before he was 10 years old.  He has also lived and worked in New York City, Boston, Colorado, Vermont, Oregon, Italy, China, and the Dominican Republic.

Why did you become a teacher?

I have my parents and high school art teachers to thank for encouraging me to pursue art, but I actually began my teaching career as a martial arts instructor.  I had a bad snowboarding accident, and I threw myself into martial arts as part of my healing process.  My teachers helped me recover, and I saw the power in their role.  I wanted to be able to connect to the same power, knowledge, wisdom, and ability to help others improve their lives as my teachers had helped me improve mine. 

What is your favorite class to teach and why?

Illustration and Narrative Image Making. At this level of the class, conversations about making art go deeper.  It’s not just about technique; it’s about the implication and impact that an artist’s images can have on the world.

How would your students describe you as a teacher? 

I think they would describe me as passionate about my subject, knowledgeable, and engaged in individual student growth.  And hopefully they’d say I’m somewhat chill.  

Do you have a particularly memorable moment from a class?

I was just having a conversation with a couple of students in the portfolio class, both of whom are incredibly talented yet shy and unaware of their potential.  One of them said that when she sees powerful art from the great masters, she gets sad.  I told her not to be sad, but instead be inspired and motivated, because she has everything it takes to make that level of work.  She cried.  It was a beautiful moment. 

Advice for students?

Take the time that you need to figure out what gives you passion, purpose, and meaning in life.  Fun is great, but it’s temporal.  Then, when you find that thing, follow it relentlessly.