Mission Statement
At Tellie Collaborative, I am committed to transforming education through the power of visual arts and innovative curriculum design. By integrating creative practice with research-driven approaches, I foster meaningful learning and authentic growth.
My work centers on two core areas—Visual Arts Education and Curriculum Development. I collaborate with individuals and institutions to cultivate technical skill, creative expression, and educational excellence. Whether developing arts-integrated curricula, offering personalized instruction, or advising on identity and culture, my approach is grounded in creativity, care, and intellectual rigor.
I am guided by the belief that education should be accessible, relevant, and transformative. Through Tellie Collaborative, I support learners, educators, and organizations in leading with purpose, imagination, and integrity.
Clients
My work spans partnerships with organizations across the nonprofit, museum, healthcare, consulting, and educational sectors, including K–12 and higher education. Select clients include:
What People Are Saying
“Ben Tellie has been one of the most influential mentors in my life. As my high school art teacher, he not only encouraged my creativity but also helped me develop a strong portfolio that opened the door to my college opportunities. After graduating, I had the privilege of working alongside him to teach graphic design to his high school students. His ability to connect with students, inspire confidence, and foster a supportive learning environment is remarkable. Ben is a dedicated teacher and collaborator who pushes those around him to grow as artists and as people.”
— Eric Sayag
Graphic Designer, Web Developer, and owner of EricZSayag.com
“Ben's tutoring and personalized visual and digital arts curriculum was amazing for my artistic development. His guidance in helping me create a visual arts portfolio and artwork was thoughtful and insightful. Ben's mentoring helped me grow my technical skills and sparked creative thinking. I was able to start my own art business and design my own website with Ben’s help. I highly recommend his exceptional services at Tellie Collaborative."
— Justin K. Valenti
Artist, Author, Advocate, and owner of Artistic Expressions by Justin K. Valenti
“Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of working with Ben on many projects related to equity and inclusion, education, and the arts. When I joined Dr. Valaida Wise Consulting, Ben was working as a DEIB consultant and served as a role model for me. As he coached me through the process of facilitating focus groups for DEIB data collection, I remember being incredibly impressed by the care and effectiveness by which he engaged employees in conversation about difficult topics. I learned a great deal working with him in this role.
It was around this time that I also saw Ben single-handedly take on the creation of a teacher's training manual for the American branch of a massive international independent school system. The final document was over a hundred pages of incisive, equity-forward, student-centric guides toward curriculum revision and best practices.
Finally, Ben and I worked together on a research project about teaching race and antiracism in the high school visual arts classroom. Seeing him in the classroom only increased my respect for his skill, care, and approach. I can confidently say that Tellie Collaborative will be an asset for your business or school!!."
— Dr. Elliott Schwebach, Ph.D.
Political Theory Scholar, Equity Consultant, and Equity and Justice Lead, Washington State Bar Association