We had a busy spring 2010 here at the studio! Seven hard working artists came week after week to paint, make robots, crowns, birds, houses, cars, fairs, mobiles, artist trading cards, jewelry boxes, stuffed animals, shell creatures, pinwheels, and more. On top of it all, I knocked off 10 paintings for an art show (July –Sept) We were busy here!
As I found myself (bravely) trying a new subject matter in my own painting, I took more notice of the delicate balance in letting my students create what they want, and pushing them beyond what they think they can achieve as well. I don’t see anything wrong with helping children glue things together, or help paint large areas in a colour of their choice. Helping my students with their visions is my role as an art teacher. They are, after all, pretty new at this. So guiding them to use materials wisely and to use tools with care, introducing them to new mediums and ways of doing things in order to help them express themselves is my job. Their job is to refine their visions, try things out, acquire new skills, and bring their imagination to life.