Marybeth Lebo has spent over 40 years blending art, education, and therapy into a career defined by compassion and creativity. Growing up in La Grange, Illinois, she discovered early that art could be more than a pastime—it could be a language for feelings too big for words.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in Art Education from Northern Illinois University, she began teaching high school art in Indiana. Over the years, she pursued advanced degrees from Indiana University and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, deepening her expertise in both curriculum design and art therapy.
At LaPorte Community School Corporation, she built a thriving art department known for technical excellence and emotional impact. Her students learn more than composition and technique; they discover how creativity can be a safe space for self-expression. As Department Head, she’s led program growth while fostering an inclusive culture.
Her therapeutic work has reached children, teens, adults, and seniors—helping them process anxiety, trauma, and life transitions through art-making. “It’s not about making something pretty,” she says. “It’s about making something honest.”
Outside the classroom, Marybeth lives the values she teaches. She gardens, meditates, creates her own art, and believes in slowing down to notice life’s details.
Her story shows how leadership can be quiet but deeply influential, how one person’s dedication can transform both programs and people, and how art—when approached with empathy—can heal as much as it can teach.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My days start early. I arrive at school before students, using the quiet to prepare lesson plans, set up materials, and center myself. Once classes begin, I’m moving constantly—teaching, offering feedback, and checking in with students emotionally. I also run art therapy sessions for individuals or small groups. Productivity comes from being fully present in each moment, rather than multitasking to the point of distraction.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I often start with an image or a question. In teaching, I’ll test an idea with a small project, then expand it if students respond well. In therapy, I adapt the medium—charcoal, clay, collage—to fit the person’s comfort level. My guiding principle is: let the work evolve naturally.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The growing recognition of mental health in schools. I’ve seen administrators start to value art therapy not just as “extra” but as essential.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I keep a reflection journal. Every day, I jot down what worked, what didn’t, and what to try next. It’s a habit that sharpens both teaching and therapy work.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t rush. The best work—whether in art or in people’s growth—takes time.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
Mess is good. A messy studio, a messy sketch—it means the process is alive.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Step outside daily. Even five minutes in fresh air resets your mind.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I switch to a tactile activity—kneading clay, pruning a plant—something that draws my attention to the senses.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Listening more than talking. It builds trust with students and colleagues.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Early on, I overloaded my classes with too many complex projects. Students got discouraged. I learned to simplify, break things into steps, and build confidence before complexity.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
Community “Art & Reflection Nights” at local libraries—free, informal, and open to all ages.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
A simple digital whiteboard app. I use it for brainstorming, mapping lesson plans, and sharing visual feedback.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
“The Creative License” by Danny Gregory—it’s a reminder to keep drawing for yourself, not just for a goal.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
Abstract: The Art of Design—it’s inspiring to see how creativity translates across disciplines.
Key learnings
- Small, consistent habits—like daily reflection—can have long-term impact on effectiveness.
- Creativity flourishes when given time, space, and permission to be messy.
- Listening deeply builds trust and strengthens both teaching and leadership.
- Simplifying complex ideas helps people learn and gain confidence faster.
- Nature and tactile activities are powerful tools for resetting focus and energy.