Teaching Philosophy
This is why I am an Art Educator
Here I am pictured helping a first grade student with their clay animal project (2019)
The act of creating is unconsciously embedded into our souls. Man was inevitably created to create. The process of art-making helps us problem solve as we constantly adapt to new circumstances. The act of making art is vital to understand how one views the world. It encourages the ability to value oneself, as well as the world around us. This is why I actively research and teach new and different ideas and concepts with enthusiasm. As Howard Gardner once said, “Anything that is worth teaching can be presented in many different ways.” I am fascinated in learning about my students who lack interest in art and how I can relate their other passions to art. I aspire to have my students become more open-minded individuals who are not afraid to pursue their interests no matter how intimidating it can be. I dream that my art class, if anything, can teach them to not be intimidated by unfamiliarity, but rather be curious and intrigued by it. I am aware that my demeanor can greatly influence the way my students view the topics in class, which is why I am enthusiastic and excited whenever I teach my students new concepts and ideas. If I am engaged by it, then the students will not be anxious about trying it out. I also believe that setting up art shows and fundraisers can effectively encourage them to understand one of the studio habits of mind: understanding the art world. The students can understand entrepreneurship in the art world, as well as learning about the community around them through events. This kind of activity, as well as other projects in my classroom, can be assessed by the progress they have made in their projects, as well as the amount of effort and engagement they put in. Lastly, in my classroom and daily life, I will always advocate for the arts and aspire to have the community be involved in some of the projects assigned to my students every year. The world around us needs to understand the importance of art education and I shall not stop until there is a global appreciation for it.