Art is a Journey, not a Race

In our studio, we don’t just jump into a final masterpiece. We follow a specific set of steps to ensure that every student feels confident and prepared. By following this process, you ensure that you aren't just making art—you’re growing as an artist!

Our Creative Process

Step 1: Brainstorm & Sketch

• We ALWAYS start here. Before your brush ever touches the canvas or your hands touch the clay, you must have a plan.

• We use our sketchbooks to get our ideas out.

• Draw light until you get it right! Sketch lightly in pencil first so that you can change your mind and refine your vision without leaving heavy marks.

Step 2: The Practice Round

• Before we move onto the "real deal," we practice.

• We use practice sheets to experiment with new materials (like watercolors, pastels, or ink).

• This is your time to learn how the materials work, how they blend, and most importantly, how to clean them up properly before we move to final papers.

Step 3: The Final Draft (Take Your Time!)

• Once you have practiced and your sketch is approved, it’s time for the final project.

• Never rush. Art takes time, and quality shows when you are patient.

• Check the Criteria: While you work, keep the project guidelines next to you. Does your artwork have everything Mrs. Baumer said it needed? When in doubt, check the criteria again! For every project, I provide a Task Sheet. This is your road map! It lists the 4–5 specific criteria your project must have to get the best score. Check it often!

Step 4: The "Mrs. Baumer" Quality Check

• Think you’re finished? Check again and make sure! Before you turn anything in, ask yourself these questions:

  • Is your name on the back? (Always the first step!)

  • Can you see pencil lines? If you can see them under your colors, refine them!

  • The "White Space" Test: Is there a lot of accidental white open space?

  • Craftsmanship: Is the coloring neat or sloppy? Does it look rushed? If it’s not your best effort, take the time to fix it!

Step 5: Reflection

• Once the work is truly done, we take a moment to look back. You will be asked to reflect on your journey:

• What did you like or dislike about this project?

• If you could start over, what would you change or do differently?

• How could you make yours even better next time?

A Note on Grading

In this classroom, you are always graded on effort, not skill. I can tell who put in their best effort and who was rushed or lazy.

This process teaches you... how to be a self-sufficient artist. It teaches you to slow down, to plan ahead, and to take pride in the quality of your work. By following these steps, you are learning how to be your own biggest critic and your own best advocate!