Personal Teaching/Art Education Philosophy

Art should enrich student’s view of their surroundings, open their minds to new types of social changes, share new types of thinking/problem solving, and to inform them of a rich artistic history. When we teach art, we are opening students minds to not only their direct environments but also to make them aware of politics, current issues, culture and ethnicity that may be outside of their immediate communities. Students should never be limited but continuously challenged and encouraged to discover new solutions and possibilities. I want to stimulate creative thought, ideas, interaction with the world, and imagination by using art as a launch pad.

My goal is to give all students an understanding of how art is intertwined with many-if not all- aspects of our lives. I want to inspire free thinking, questioning, and creativity.

As a ceramic artist and educator, I strive to provide artistic opportunities to all students. I’m currently using my knowledge in both fields to provide co-operative learning environments between GVSU and area low-income high schools. I want to share with students who would otherwise never be able to experience clay and provide a great learning environment for both parties.

I also think technology is very important to incorporate into the art curriculum because it expands possibilities and provides new ways to solve artistic problems. Integrating technology into art would also give students additional skills that would carry over into professional careers and everyday life. However, the artist should use technology in a way to benefit their artwork and improve their ideas and concepts.