Art Education allows students to celebrate their unique lived experiences by representing their identities in creative ways that are personally meaninfgul. In my classroom, our goal is to build meaning through artmaking, while visually communicating our passions, feelings, and ideas. The goal of Art Education is for young artists to showcase individual experiences, values, and cultures.
In my classroom, students take on many roles in their education, including working on a team to maintain and take care of our studio and supplies, coming to class ready to use their imaginations, trying new things, and participating in group discussion or critique. I emphasize Studio Habits such as Stretch and Explore and Engage and Persist in order to teach students to take control of their own learning by critically thinking about their work, while pushing themselves further with each piece. In my classroom, students are responsible for setting personal goals, as well as giving qualitative feedback to others during the process. Finally, the class as a whole is expected to work together to create a culture of integrity and respect for all.
My role as a constructivist art educator consists of guiding and facilitating artistic skills in a TAB setting, as well as teaching students how to think and work like true artists. I endeavor to build authentic relationships with students where they feel their concerns are heard, and opinions are valued. Employing an asset-based mindset allows me to implement student-centered curriculum and maintain high expectations for young artists in my classroom. I believe that the best teachers ask more questions than they answer; as the visual arts are all about investigating the world around us, and exploring big ideas that become layered and multi-faceted.
My students build a strong relationship to art and are encouraged to use their art to amplify their own voice, becoming critical thinkers, good citizens, and great artists. My dedication to Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education builds a strong curriculum that enhances authentic learning and creates affirming environments for all.