Lauri Jenkins, a fiber artist whose journey with sewing began in her teenage years, was recognized for her contributions to the Visual Arts Center of Richmond with the 2024 Shelly Shepherd Master Teacher Award. Ms. Jenkins received the award May 11 at the center’s 38th Annual Collectors’ Night, a fundraising event presented by Dominion Energy.

Ms. Jenkins’ connection to the Visual Arts Center dates back to 2016 when she began teaching sewing to children. Over the years, her role expanded to include adult classes, reflecting her passion and dedication to both her craft and the community.

Jenkins expressed her surprise and gratitude upon learning she had been selected for the award. “It’s a big deal for me,” she remarked. “It’s not only recognition for my expertise, which I’ve worked on for so long, but it makes me aware of my impact at VisArts.”

Growing up in Patterson, N.J., Ms. Jenkins spent weekends with her grandmother, who taught her the basics of sewing. At the age of 13, Ms. Jenkins began working for a neighbor who owned a clothing alteration shop, cutting patterns for $8 to $10 each. This early experience with textiles and garment construction deepened her interest in the field.

After high school, Ms. Jenkins turned her skills into a business, making alterations for clients and eventually launching her own clothing design company, Laurianda.

The Shelly Shepherd Master Teacher Award is named in memory of longtime watercolor instructor Shelly Shepherd, and has been presented since 2001 to an instructor who exemplifies the center’s mission. The honoree is selected through nominations from faculty, staff, students, board members and the Richmond community.

“Sometimes, after so much struggle and pushing through and hearing negative things as you develop your craft, it gets rough,” she shared. “This award affirms that this was the right career choice for me and creates a boost inside of me that makes me want to go harder and strive higher.”