My teaching practice comes from the drive to open communication and ideas between students in my classroom and myself. It is a way of allowing conversation as well as a positive learning environment where students are encouraged and willing to speak about not only their own work but the work of their classmates. They are free to ask questions and make observations about what they are learning and be comfortable doing so. My classroom is a place where experimentation and mistakes can happen but it also allows students to learn the proper techniques and skills to develop their fine motor skills as well as their conceptual ideas. No matter what material is being used and what the project theme is about, and should have enough flexibility to give enough of a creative outlet.
Art education is a necessary subject to teach students to instill creativity as well as to explore one's identity. Art education allows students to connect to all subject matter in relation to themselves and relate a visual product of their accomplishment. It allows students to explore materials and opens students up to learn different problem-solving skills, create relations to history and identity, and create a product with a sense of accomplishment. When achieving a skill, product, or gaining knowledge and understanding it creates a positive school and work experience for the child. This can increase a positive aspect in the students' life.
I want to teach art in New York City because it is a great place to explore the world of art just by walking outside of our back door. I have had opportunities to visit and learn from different art foundations and museums throughout my personal education and I want to help create similar experiences for students. I am excited to work with a diverse population of students. As a contemporary issue in the NYC DOE, I want to promote conversations about diversity and culturally inclusive art practices. I am looking for a school community where the administration and teachers work together for the best interests of the students. I find working in communities where art is valued to be energizing and I feel it is part of my role to instill this art as a valued part of our city's culture. All of my experiences throughout my art education have been important for me and it is my intention to give back by developing a well-rounded art education for my students.
In my teaching practice, what is important to me is to create an open and positive classroom environment. Students must feel welcome and safe in the classroom. They must feel comfortable enough to ask questions, make mistakes, and even fail sometimes in order to succeed. This is especially true in an art classroom where the nature of the subject is trial and error and full of chance and experimentation. Therefore, students must have an environment where there is a positive atmosphere to take risks.