I believe that art has the power to transform individuals, communities and most importantly, mentalities. As artists, it is our responsibility to celebrate the beauty of our world and question its inadequacies. Art is a form of activism through which we can face these challenges and sculpt a better future. In addition to my own artistic endeavors, it is my duty and pleasure to mentor and inspire the next generation of creative minds.
With knowledge and understanding comes a realization of the unknown; each answer opens the door to new inquiries. Through my own education, I have experienced this first hand. An educator has the great opportunity to instill a curiosity and passion into each student. My desire to teach is spurred by this same enthusiasm. I care about my students, the subject and the entire learning process. I deeply want my students to succeed.
Each student is possessed of talents, weaknesses and a unique perspective, and must be inspired in a manner that particularly suits his or her needs. While considering the individuality of my students, I motivate in a manner that encourages their personal development. I approach art education with a balance of structure and freedom and believe that both conceptual ability and technical skill must be addressed in order to promote effective and communicative artists.
Fostering a community among students is vital. Because no person possesses all knowledge, employing a variety of resources is compulsory. I help my students to view one another as a resource. A respectful, caring bond with students is the foundation of a successful education experience. I also believe that art is most effective when it steps out of the studio and engages the community. My students are provided opportunities to create public art and exhibit locally.
Teaching is a reciprocal, symbiotic exchange. Both the educator and student continue to grow with each encounter. In my classroom, I employ a process-based approach wherein exploration supersedes discovery. When students learn how to obtain and utilize knowledge, true learning occurs. The ability to think critically empowers students to apply creativity and problem solving in their art and in all aspects of life. Research and experience have shown that employers, in and out of the arts, are actively seeking individuals with these qualities. Art instills creativity and a strong work ethic, preparing students for any career aspiration.
My primary concern as an educator is to encourage students to become creative, responsible and socially engaged young artists. I teach because I am an eternal optimist. I believe in our future.
With knowledge and understanding comes a realization of the unknown; each answer opens the door to new inquiries. Through my own education, I have experienced this first hand. An educator has the great opportunity to instill a curiosity and passion into each student. My desire to teach is spurred by this same enthusiasm. I care about my students, the subject and the entire learning process. I deeply want my students to succeed.
Each student is possessed of talents, weaknesses and a unique perspective, and must be inspired in a manner that particularly suits his or her needs. While considering the individuality of my students, I motivate in a manner that encourages their personal development. I approach art education with a balance of structure and freedom and believe that both conceptual ability and technical skill must be addressed in order to promote effective and communicative artists.
Fostering a community among students is vital. Because no person possesses all knowledge, employing a variety of resources is compulsory. I help my students to view one another as a resource. A respectful, caring bond with students is the foundation of a successful education experience. I also believe that art is most effective when it steps out of the studio and engages the community. My students are provided opportunities to create public art and exhibit locally.
Teaching is a reciprocal, symbiotic exchange. Both the educator and student continue to grow with each encounter. In my classroom, I employ a process-based approach wherein exploration supersedes discovery. When students learn how to obtain and utilize knowledge, true learning occurs. The ability to think critically empowers students to apply creativity and problem solving in their art and in all aspects of life. Research and experience have shown that employers, in and out of the arts, are actively seeking individuals with these qualities. Art instills creativity and a strong work ethic, preparing students for any career aspiration.
My primary concern as an educator is to encourage students to become creative, responsible and socially engaged young artists. I teach because I am an eternal optimist. I believe in our future.