Ms. Engel's Art Room
"Creativity takes courage." - Henri Matisse
As much as I want to share my excitement about all of the cool things we will make and experience this year - I also really want to begin this blog by sharing my teaching philosophy. I feel that it's important to know, not only a little more about me and how I teach, but what you and your student can expect from me throughout the year.
[All of the FUN, artsy things will follow this post..promise!] __________ There are two quotes that directly reflect my teaching philosophy; both quotes are independent of each other, however they can be connected through thoughtful art education. “… Development of a Complete Mind: Study the science of art. Study the art of science. Develop your senses- especially learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else.” – Leonardo Da Vinci “Creativity takes courage.” – Henri Matisse I believe there is no better place to learn than in the art room. Art is truly a multidisciplinary subject that encompasses math, science, social studies and literature. Art can be incorporated across curriculum as long as communication is open among teachers, allowing for a comprehensive education that connects what students are exploring in other subjects. Connecting works of art with historical timelines, examining symmetrical patterns in fractals, and using multi-colored tessellations to support math lessons, are all ways to support inter-curricular learning. As an art educator, it is important to me that students not only learn how to think about art and make it, but to understand why it’s made and why it’s important in the world. For me, the importance of teaching art remains in what students gain; self-confidence, cultural awareness, social skills, language development, motor skills, decision-making, and inventiveness. While teaching students the fundamentals of creating art and how to use various media are basic requirements of the job, I believe creativity cannot be taught. Rather, my job is to support and encourage children to access their own unique creativity, as it is up to the students to dig deep for what inspires them. As an art educator, I am someone who fosters students’ personal creative paths and allows for safe exploration of processes and materials. I want my students to succeed and develop a sense of pride in all they do, in and outside of the Art Room. In my classroom, exploration and creativity is key. I believe in letting students make their own “artistic decisions” and encourage them to help their peers in doing the same. I allow students opportunities to try different mediums during projects, I encourage combining techniques and materials, and I support students who want to push their own creative boundaries, while teaching them the foundations of art. I want students to be able to use their artistic knowledge, vocabulary and methods alongside their creative process. The lessons I teach incorporate the fundamentals of art with abundant opportunities for self-expression. For instance, my lesson about Andy Warhol and Pop Art included a theme of donuts and media like fabric, real sprinkles and 3-D paint. Learning about art should be fun, engaging and tangible for all students. My Kindergarten lessons often include visual prompts, books, amusing sounds, and engaging instruction. For the Torn Paper Owl lesson students watched a short cartoon about owls, we talked about using paper to create texture, and even “hooted” like owls. One goal I have for each lesson taught is to reach the broadest audience and to include everyone in the learning and creative process. As an art teacher, I am constantly looking for ways to improve my subject knowledge and pedagogical skills. I set an example by continuing to be a student of art, of teaching, and of learning. I always strive to do the very best I can in the classroom, never forgetting the influence I have on my students daily – and the impact I have for their future.
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Currently savoring the last moments of summer....and working on putting together some fun, informative blog posts - check back soon!
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Our friend, Mona Lisa, joins us in every class!Remember that Archives
December 2016
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