Sunday, November 1, 2009

Mission Statement (my goal in teaching art)

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” 
-Pablo Picasso

Universally, children explore ways to create and express themselves through art.  They explore on their own, or with guidance.  When they reach the age of nine, ten, or eleven they often begin to compare their creations with those of their peers.  If they feel they are not “as talented” they may give up on their creative impulses.  Many adults will quickly admit that they cannot even draw good stick figures. They have never developed their artistic ability past their elementary years.
I believe that, with guidance, children can develop their abilities and continue to benefit from their creative experiences.  I am not suggesting that every student can attain the same level of artistic talent, but rather that each student can benefit from developing her artistic abilities to reach her maximum potential.
My goal is to nurture confidence and desire in my students to continue to create and appreciate the creations of others beyond their elementary school years, so that they may reach their own full potential.
I want to help children remain artists when they grow up.