KAISA LEMLEY | VISUAL ARTIST
ZINES, ILLUSTRATION & SEQUENTIAL STORYTELLING FOR CROSS-CURRICULAR LEARNING
Kaisa Lemley brings hand-drawn storytelling into the classroom, blending drawing, writing, and visual composition with science, history, and personal narratives. Based on the Olympic Peninsula, her work spans painting, illustration, and autobiographical comics, and has been featured in snowboard films, nonprofit campaigns, and public art projects. Inspired by the teaching philosophies of cartoonist Lynda Barry, Kaisa treats drawing as a thinking tool—helping students synthesize information, reflect on their experiences, and discover their own voices. Her classes guide students through the process of creating zines—small, handmade books that combine images and words—turning ideas into tangible, sharable works of art.
GRADE LEVELS
Upper elementary (3rd–6th grade), middle, and high school
ART FORMS
Visual Arts • Illustration • Zines • Sequential Storytelling
ARTS INTEGRATION & CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS
Kaisa’s programs support Washington State Learning Standards by integrating visual arts with other core subjects:
- Visual Arts Standards (VA:Cr1–Cr3): Drawing, composition, and combining text with imagery.
- English Language Arts (ELA:SL, W, RL): Writing, sequencing, and synthesizing information from texts and discussion.
- Science (NGSS: LS, ESS): Transforming scientific observation and research into visual storytelling.
- Social Studies (SS: C2, H1): Documenting cultural history, personal narratives, and place-based stories through illustration and text.
Pairs well with:
- Science units on ecology, life cycles, and the natural world
- History or social studies projects on local or cultural heritage
- Creative writing and poetry units
- SEL projects focusing on personal storytelling
- School-wide literacy or art showcases
WHY TEACHERS CHOOSE KAISA
- Uses drawing and storytelling to deepen comprehension across subjects
- Gives every student a finished, shareable zine that builds pride and connection
- Encourages creative risk-taking in a supportive environment
- Adapts to a wide range of ages, skill levels, and curriculum themes
- Flexible structure fits into single sessions, multi-day residencies, or long-term projects
KAISA LEMLEY'S PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
Zines from the Natural World
Students explore local ecology—such as the salmon life cycle or regional plant life—through drawing, writing, and sequential storytelling. They gather information from readings, discussions, or outdoor observation, then transform it into zines that weave together scientific facts and creative interpretation. Finished zines can be displayed, shared with the community, or added to the school library. Minimum: 2 class periods.
Songs into Stories
Students listen to a chosen song—either individually or as a class—and translate its mood, imagery, and narrative into a zine. Using illustration, text, and page layout, they explore how rhythm, tone, and meaning in music can be reimagined as visual storytelling. Minimum: 2 class periods.
