All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once they grow up. - Pablo Picasso
Being an Art Teacher combines my whimsical, curious, creative side with my maternal, nurturing side into the perfect job. Everyday I have opportunities to problem solve, explore and express while teaching my students about art, artists and the beauty all around us.
The priorities I try to instill in my art room are:
* Problem Solving- In art, there are multiple solutions to a given challenge. Teachers should serve as facilitators, asking questions to guide students to answers, instead of simply giving answers.
*Emotional development- Self expression should be encouraged to inspire unique art. Creative growth can build confidence and motivate continued learning so students can reach their full potential and mastery.
* Creativity & Experimentation-. There are no wrong answers in art. As long as materials are used properly and an effort is made, there can be multiple interpretations of a piece of work.
* Accomplishment- Anyone can be taught to be an artist by teaching them the skills to use various art materials and techniques, a mastery of art vocabulary, an aesthetic awareness, and an art historical and cultural framework.
* Differentiated Learning- Art teachers can appeal to all the senses when teaching and should provide hands-on examples whenever possible.
* Challenging Students- A qualitative art program demands more of students than what they do naturally. It is the teacher’s responsibility to establish a positive learning climate in which perseverance and purposeful effort thrive.
* Multicultural World- Art makes the whole world accessible exposing children to the universal beauty of varied cultures and styles.
* Aestheticism- If children are taught to appreciate the beauty in art and nature, big and small, they will grow up taking pleasure in the wonders of the world.
* Making Connections- Teaching content through art can only make that content more accessible and more meaningful to the students.
* Technology- Art education today must include cutting edge technology as does today’s art.
* Comfort-- It’s essential that students feel both physical safety and also emotional security in the art room.
* Respect- Students need to feel respected by the teacher and other students so they are willing to express themselves creatively. Students need to respect the teacher as well. Part of this respect comes from the teacher being knowledgeable, prepared and offering stimulating lessons for the class.
* Life long skills- I want to instill in my students a lifelong desire to participate in art as means of expression and enjoyment later on in life
* Art as an adventure- Teachers need to be reflective and flexible, let the students’ interests guide you into new projects and processes. We have the opportunity to be learning as we teach and need to take advantage of that gift. Our job is to inspire and excite our students and this can only be done if we continually question if we are meeting our objectives. I hope the joy I feel about art is apparent in all my interactions with my students.
