People are capable of learning best when they are trying to accomplish something meaningful. Each assignment should give room for each individual to answer it in a unique way. A class is most successful when the works from each student are as different as their individual personalities. Techniques and craftsmanship can be taught within the student’s evolving vision. They are best learned when the student is reaching for meaningful expression. There is a substantial reward seeing students find possibility in their own efforts. Craftsmanship is important. An idea can be obscured if the expression is clouded by poor technique. Effort is tangible and can be measured by the time the student actually puts into the work and by the growth shown as the work demonstrates an improving mastery of new technique. The teacher is a student as well. While there is a time when each piece is finished, the body of work is always a work in progress. The teacher is learning as much how to facilitate the individual’ student’s expression and to develop their personal style as is the student. It is lucky when a teacher begins a student on a life long pursuit and rewarding when they are included in this accomplishment long after the course is finished. It is rewarding as well when a student becomes better capable of understanding another person’s calling and begins to enjoy a broadening delight in other’s expressions. Critique should never leave one without new possibilities. Through the critique process, the teacher, student artist and other class members can help unravel an individual’s intent and where and how it could be strengthened. At the end of successful critique students should be determined to get closer to the expressions of their vision, to nurture their own techniques and abilities and to enjoy the risk involved in sharing these expressions. It is a great gift when we can learn this ability to nurture.
Listed skills include Art Education, Fine Art, Printmaking, Painting, and 46 others.
