Teaching Philosophy
The art classroom is a unique situation in the academic institution. In many academic disciplines there is a pronounced division between the instructor and the students and often very little interaction across that divide. I feel that it is essential that this divide be transgressed. When this is allowed to happen, both teacher and student are able to learn from each other in a very profound way. This type of teacher-student relationship is the reason that I enjoy teaching.
Upon entering my classroom, it is vital that a student feels comfortable; a positive working environment encourages students to engage more openly in the coursework and provides the best conditions for learning. I attempt to create a classroom environment in which each student feels that he or she plays an important role in the dynamics of the class. Students are invited to share their knowledge and experiences with each other, which helps to enhance their confidence and further their ability to learn. Each student has his/her own unique history and set of skills which must be considered in order to help that student learn and develop.
I view my role as a teacher as analogous to that of a coach. I demand a lot from my students, but it is my responsibility to challenge students and push them to reach their potential. Often, it is easy for students to play it safe and do what they are comfortable doing, and I feel that it is important to encourage students to take risks and try something that they do not know will work. This type of exploration does not always immediately yield the most successful work, but it does typically provide for the most meaningful and lasting learning experience.
A strong technical foundation is essential to a good art education. Without a sound base of fundamental skills, students are limited in the choices by which to express their ideas. However, the accumulation of techniques is not the end goal; students must learn to decide when to apply the tools that they have learned most effectively in order to enhance their own artistic vision. I work with students individually to assist them in developing their technical and conceptual skills as well as helping them to learn how to make these two sets of skills work together.
In addition to developing their own artistic practice, students must develop a knowledge of both art historical and contemporary art practices. It is vital that students become aware of other modes of practice in order to inform and question their own. As emerging artists, students need to possess the ability to discuss their work and the work of other artists within a larger context. I work to help students develop this important ability through critique and class discussions.