Title: 1) Adjunct Professor of Painting and Drawing; 2) Author; 3) Painter
Company: 1) College of San Mateo
Location: Hayward, California, United States
Alan Tarbell, adjunct professor of painting and drawing at College of San Mateo, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for dedication, achievements and leadership in fine arts.
Mr. Tarbell has established an exceptional career in fine arts and education, marked by a commitment to fostering creativity and environmental awareness. Since 2024, he has excelled as an adjunct professor of painting and drawing at College of San Mateo, where he teaches advanced and foundational art theories and techniques. His present position represents the culmination of years of dedication to his craft and teaching, and he regards it as the most significant achievement of his professional journey. Mr. Tarbell finds profound fulfillment in guiding students to discover their artistic potential, viewing the creative process as a powerful tool for personal expression and growth.
Since 2012, Mr. Tarbell has also found success as an instructor at Berkeley Art Studio, where he continues to share his expertise in painting and drawing with a diverse student body. His approach emphasizes both technical mastery and the exploration of contemporary issues, particularly those related to the environment and culture. From 2013 to 2024, he served as a painting and drawing instructor at Sharon Art Studio, nurturing emerging artists and encouraging them to engage with their surroundings through art.
Additionally, Mr. Tarbell taught at Richmond Art Center from 2012 to 2024, further expanding his influence within the Bay Area’s vibrant arts community. His international experience includes serving as professor of painting and drawing at Instituto Allende in Mexico from 2004 to 2008, where he broadened his pedagogical perspective and deepened his understanding of cross-cultural artistic practices.
Beyond academia, Mr. Tarbell worked as a landscape designer and project manager for Misty Morning Gardens from 2016 to 2021, integrating his artistic sensibilities into environmental design projects. He previously contributed to installation and design at Misty Morning Gardens from 2000 to 2002, gaining valuable experience in collaborative creative work.
In addition to his teaching roles, Mr. Tarbell is recognized as an accomplished author, painter and illustrator. He has received recognition for his artwork from Light Space & Time Online Art Gallery, underscoring his expertise in fine arts. His professional affiliations include his membership in The Sierra Club, reflecting his ongoing commitment to environmental advocacy.
Civic engagement is integral to Mr. Tarbell’s life. He volunteers with Pro Arts Open Studios and a local climate change organization, supporting initiatives that promote community involvement in the arts and environmental stewardship. As a supporter of the Karuk Tribe, he demonstrates respect for indigenous perspectives on land management and cultural heritage.
Mr. Tarbell’s creative output extends beyond traditional media; since 200, he has maintained an active studio practice as an artist. From 2000 to 2006, he refined his unique talents as author and illustrator for Lonely Planet, contributing visual narratives that reflect his passion for travel and cultural exploration. Born in Orinda, Mr. Tarbell draws inspiration from his diverse geographic background, which informs both his artistic vision and teaching philosophy.
To support his professional ambitions, Mr. Tarbell initially pursued an education at the University of California Davis, from which he earned a Bachelor of Arts in geography and geology in 1997. He concluded his academic efforts with a Master of Fine Arts in multi-disciplinary art from Universidad de Guanajuato in 2005, equipping him with advanced skills that inform both his studio practice and teaching methodology. This interdisciplinary foundation enables him to approach art with a unique perspective rooted in an understanding of natural systems.
Mr. Tarbell attributes his success not only to years of dedicated practice but also to an innate ability to communicate knowledge effectively. By adapting his teaching methods to resonate with different learners, he helps students develop their own voices as artists. Central to his philosophy is a deep connection with the natural world—a value cultivated through immersive experiences outdoors—which serves as both inspiration and grounding force for his creative work.
Looking toward the future, Mr. Tarbell intends to pursue teaching at the college level as a full-time endeavor while continuing to develop and exhibit artwork focused on environmental themes. His current series, “Bonsai California,” explores the relationship between prescribed forest burns and ecological renewal; future projects will address additional concerns such as oceanic environments and natural elements, using art as a platform for awareness and reflection. Through ongoing travel, engagement with nature and culture, and dedication to personal growth, Mr. Tarbell remains committed to evolving as both educator and artist—deepening his impact on students, audiences and the broader community.
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