Amy Gillispie transforms education through creativity and passion at Building Brilliant Minds, where architecture, art, and music blend into a unique learning experience for homeschooled students worldwide. What began in 2009 as architecture lessons for her nine children has evolved into a global educational platform connecting students across continents through project-based learning.
Drawing from her Ohio State architecture degree and recent master's in art education, Amy crafts courses that make complex subjects accessible and engaging. Her Introduction to Architecture essentially delivers sophomore-level undergraduate content adapted for younger students, while specialized courses like "Marvel Movies and Art" and "Lord of the Rings and Narnia in Art" spark creativity through beloved stories. Students from Kentucky to New Zealand, Australia, and Hong Kong gather via Zoom to sketch, design, and express themselves artistically.
The Simply Music method Amy uses for piano instruction exemplifies her innovative approach. Rather than traditional notation, students learn through patterns and shapes, enabling them to play complex pieces within weeks. This methodology perfectly complements her architectural teaching and demonstrates how making learning tactile and visual can accelerate skill development. Meanwhile, her Chromatic Compositions business represents the fascinating intersection of her talents, translating music into visual art through color theory and neurographic lines.
Amy's journey reflects the evolution of homeschooling itself. She notes that today's challenge isn't the stereotypical concern about socialization but rather managing the abundance of opportunities available to homeschooled students. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a public school student seeking independent study options, or simply curious about alternative educational approaches, Amy's work demonstrates how passion-driven, project-based learning can build brilliant minds. Discover more at buildingbrilliantmindsonline.com or connect directly at hsarchitecture@iCloud.com to explore how architecture, art, and music can transform education.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
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