Teaching Philosophy

Teaching Philosophy

          Teachers can leave long lasting impressions on their students.  After many years, advice given to me by a teacher resonates true today and continues to be a philosophy I try to live by.  My teacher very simply stated:  “Fear is a terrible excuse for not trying something.”  This is advice I would like to instill in all of my students.  Building students’ confidence and giving them the right tools to succeed academically and in life is my main goal as an art educator.

            Art education is an invaluable tool for students’ development because it teaches them to think creatively, critically and independently.  I want to provide them with a nurturing environment where they can safely take risks and step outside of their comfort zone.  To do so, trust must be built between the students and the teacher.  Developing a curriculum that is relative to students’ lives is one way a teacher can create meaningful connections and an environment that is more conducive to risk-taking while making art.

            As an art educator, I value process over product.  Although it is wonderful to create a beautiful masterpiece, it takes a lot of mistakes and practice to get there.  By guiding students through artistic “mistakes” (which is part of the creative process), they will begin to realize how this translates to other aspects of life.  I wish to encourage students to become life-long learners who carry a genuine interest and curiosity for our world and all it has to offer.