Educational Philosophy
My approach to teaching art is based on building core techniques while amplifying students’ creative freedom. I give assignments centering student agency and ownership, with the opportunity for students to make work that speaks to their own interests and skill sets. By using a set of guidelines, rather than instructions, to drive each assignment, I encourage students to divert from my vision of the outcome if they are led in another creative direction.
Equity and accessibility lie at the center of my practice as an educator. In my classes, a variety of media allow students of varied skills and abilities to have equal opportunities to create. I present information in multiple formats to meet all students’ diverse learning needs, such as written numbered step-by-step instruction with accompanying imagery, in-person demos, and oral explanations.
I strive to create a learning environment that is safe and supportive for my students. I encourage my students to work collaboratively and learn from one another. In art-making, collaboration and peer feedback complement a robust slate of social-emotional benefits. Students naturally learn how to be constructive and communicate with one another in an honest yet kind way. I work with my students on setting reasonable deadlines, and share accessible guidelines of my expectations. I give my students space to think freely and work autonomously when making art.
-
Share