​

I believe that art is just as important as reading and writing. Through art a child can learn to observe the world by seeing, touching, smelling, hearing and tasting, and can translate and communicate their discoveries and points of view. My own interests in diverse forms of media and materials have taught me that art is not just meant to be visual decoration, but a way to communicate ideas about the world around us. Visual art makes these observations and connections to ideas more obvious and accessible to all. 

 

Inspiration

 

Inspiration is what fuels the art making process and leads to great ideas in art making. I want my students to be inspired by everything and anything. Elements such as the environment, popular culture, examples from contemporary and master artists, and curriculum teaching components are used in lesson plans that show students the importance of looking at and examining their world to create art.

 

Reflection

 

When students learn to ask questions about their work they are opening the door to their own learning process. Reflection through student lead class critiques and inquiry based learning of both student and professional artwork can help them to become better observers. Students hone their independent learning skills and become better artists as they learn to question their choices and decisions in art making. Once learned, reflection is a valuable skill that encourages and supports lifelong learning.

 

Play as Investigation

 

I encourage self-directed learning through open experimentation, investigation of materials and techniques, and peer collaboration so that students learn to appreciate and enjoy the process in their art making. They are free to become inspired by new ideas, discover new methods of creating, and discard old concepts and outworn practices. My students accumulate valuable information through play that stays with them long after their projects have been finished.