Ysanel Torres

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Parson’s School of Design

Ysanel is a multidisciplinary artist and educator whose work bridges art, culture, and community.  Over a decade of painting large-scale murals taught her that the true power of public art lies not just in transforming walls, but in fostering dialogue, connection, and a sense of place. 

A graduate of Parsons School of Design (BFA, Integrated Design), with classical training in fine arts from the Pennsylvania Academy of The Fine Arts, Ysanel brings her passion for art and ecology into her work as a Kumu/Advisor at Namahana School. Having attended the flagship school in Providence herself (The Met High School), she is deeply connected to Big Picture Learning’s mission of real-world learning. At Namahana, she supports the development of an ‘Āina-based curriculum that integrates environmental stewardship, cultural practice, and design thinking, reflecting her commitment to nurturing creative and sustainable futures.