​

     I was influenced greatly by my father who is an artist. We visited museums and art galleries where he not only taught me how to look closely at and analyze art, but also how to describe the feelings that are evoked from such insights. I value this experience and I’m inspired to pass this knowledge on to my future students.

     I am beginning my journey as an art educator based on the belief that learning to make art is not only essential in forming a well-rounded education, but more importantly, encourages gaining insight into an individual’s perspective on life and his or her place in society through self-expression.

     A theme that runs through my teaching style is one that encourages students to allow for, and anticipate mistakes. I believe that mistakes are part of the learning process that helps to strengthen skills and builds confidence. There are no failures in art, for I believe that it’s all about the process and how true learning best takes place. Learning theories I draw from are student centered such as, constructivism for its emphasis on hands on learning, and progressivism for the value placed on experimentation of ideas and the interaction of students in the learning process.

     My goal is that my classroom will be a place of community learning and a nurturing environment that allows freedom of expression without judgement. Aside from instructing students on the fundamentals of art and art appreciation, my wish is to encourage their vision of a better world through thoughtful discussion and insights into today’s society.

These values are what inspire me to become the most effective educator I can be and I hope for my students to look back at their time in art class as invaluable and inspiring.