Celia's Teaching Philosophy
My main goal as an educator is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment in which my students can explore the limits of their creativity. Visual Arts is inherently personal, as students create work by hand, which may reflect emotions, experiences, interests and more. In order for my students to have comfort in sharing these ideas I must prioritize relationship building and mutual respect within the art room.
I believe that art is a non-literate language, and it is my job to aid my students in accessing it. I am very intentional to create culturally responsive and accessible lessons for my students that push the boundaries of what they believe art can be. From using found materials, to recognizing patterns in the architecture around us, my students are prompted to think about art as integral part of our world.
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"I believe that art is a non-literate language, and it is my job to aid my students in accessing it."
The Art Room
In my elementary art room in make sure to have large tables working with messy materials, hand made anchor charts which relate directly to ours lessons, and flexible seating to meet diverse learning needs. Most importantly, I provide a comfortable environment for creating.
The Art Room Experience:
Extensive Access to Materials
In my classroom, students are exposed to wide range of art materials and techniques, including painting, collage, clay sculpture, and digital art tools like Adobe Fresco and Procreate. This exposure allows them to different mediums and discover what resonates with them personally. By having access a variety of resources, students can experiment freely, helping them uncover their individual passions through projects. The introduction of new materials not only ignites their interest but also encourages a lasting appreciation artistic expression.
Social Emotional Learning
Art serves as a powerful tool for social-emotional learning (SEL), allowing children to express their emotions in a unique and impactful way. Through art, students can access a non-literate language that transcends words, fostering deeper connections between their feelings and world around them. By engaging with various artistic mediums, they can explore and understand their emotions, promoting personal growth and self-awareness. This creative journey not only enhances their emotional intelligence but also builds empathy and resilience in a supportive environment.
Interdisciplinary Strengthening
Art is inherently interdisciplinary, seamlessly blending various subjects to create a richer learning experience. It naturally incorporates elements of math through patterns and symmetry, enhances reading and writing skills through storytelling and expression, and utilizes technology in digital art creation. This interconnectedness allows students to explore concepts from multiple angles, fostering critical thinking and creativity. By embracing art in education, we not only support holistic development but also prepare to tackle future challenges with a well-rounded perspective.
Cultural Connections
Art functions as a crucial cultural connector in educational settings, creating an inclusive atmosphere where students can explore and appreciate diverse backgrounds. By engaging with various forms of artwork, gain valuable insights into different cultures, fostering empathy and understanding among their. Furthermore, art facilitates discussions about real-world events and issues, serving as a platform for meaningful dialogue and reflection. This creative exchange not enriches the educational experience but also cultivates a sense of community, empowering students to become informed and active participants in their environments.