The foundation of art comes from teaching our
eyes to see and learning the techniques and skills of our mediums, one must
have this to move forward as a more mature & successful artist. Therefore
as an educator- in Intro level classes I focus significantly on craft and skill,
developing the eye and the student’s individual way of seeing, as well as being
introduced to both the historical and contemporary practices of the medium
studied. As my students move into more mature and personal work I maintain the
importance of these techniques and values but encourage a focus on creating
meaningful content relative to the medium today.
In art,
rules are made to be questioned, boundaries pushed, and thoughts challenged but
this is not to be done in an arbitrary way but in a thoughtful considered way.
I push students to delve into understanding why they do what they do and how to
make it more successful. I take great
effort to expose students to a variety of contemporary practices and artists and
emphasize the importance of educating ones eyes and mind via the greater world.
I hold my
students to high expectations, from the very first class, as I have found that
this creates stronger work and more serious students. I design my classes so
students acquire skills and techniques in a logical order and stress the
importance of learning the skills, techniques, theory and materials of the
medium but also expect students to find their own artistic voice.
Teaching is
one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had, outside of creating art.
I feel that the most important aspect of an effective teacher is passion,
passion toward the subject & material that they teach. I embody the excitement and love that I have
for art in hopes to pass this on to my students. Through the expression of a teacher’s
enthusiasm, excitement, and commitment learning is encouraged, supported, and
inevitable.