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is so much insight you gain from making art yourself that
you simply cannot get no matter how many books you read or
classes you take. When you can identify with students at their
level, you can communicate you ideas so much clearer because
you know their perspective. I feel that it is essential to
keep active as an artist and whenever possible, to engage
in the same activities that you are asking your students to
do. Not only does working help your creativity, but it sends
a message to the students that you think art is important
to learn and they will have more trust in your teaching.
So where is the line between being an artist and teacher?
This is a question I have been struggling with and it was
the hardest transition I had to make in my life. People ask
me if I share my art with my students. My position is that
showing my art is not something that is standard in my practice,
but if there is an instance where I know the student(s) well
enough and I feel that it by showing my art will enhance their
learning
experience, then it would be appropriate. Much of
this topic relates to my
digital work. I love to inspire young learners to see
the work behind multi-media design and appreciate the aspects
of design that go into it. The best way to show them the design
process, is by showing them a “behind the scenes”
look at my work. Digital art is much easier to share with
students since it is much less personal to me and more clearly
illustrates the qualities to being a successful professional
in any field; quality, consistency, efficiency, presentation
and creativity.
Creating art is a risk. This statement is a good thing to
remember in the classroom. Students are exposing themselves
and their ideas to others around them. I believe that being
able to take the same risks and show you have passion for
the field can help you be a better teacher and help you learn
more about yourself. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses
is an asset in any classroom. I feel that I couldn’t
have thought of myself as being an art teacher unless I had
the experience of creating
my own art and can share the benefits and challenges
of creating art in the classroom and in the world.
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