I believe the purpose of education is to create a safe and inclusive learning environment. Students need to gain knowledge, but they also need to feel secure, valued, and confident in expressing themselves. Art education provides a space where students can explore, take risks, and discover their creativity without fear of judgment. Art is a universal language that gives visual support to students who may struggle with oral or written instruction, providing a pathway for differentiated learning. It allows all students to communicate and demonstrate understanding in ways beyond words. Art also gives students who may not excel in other subjects a chance to succeed while strengthening critical thinking, problem-solving, and motor skills.

In my classroom, teaching and learning are a conversation. I encourage students to share their ideas, opinions, and emotions about their own work and the art we study together. I believe experimentation is a core part of learning. During a lesson I will demonstrate techniques or ideas for students, but then remove the example I have made so they can create independently. This ensures that they are not focused on replicating my work, but are free to take inspiration and make it uniquely their own. The goal is not for every student to produce the same result, but for each to meet the project goals while adding their own creative ideas. By allowing students to experiment with materials, lines, colors, and forms, I help them build confidence and develop problem-solving skills as they make artistic decisions on their own.

Reflection and adaptation are central to my teaching practice. After each lesson, I consider what worked, what didn’t, and how I can better support students’ learning. Every student is unique, and not all learn the same way, so I adjust my lessons and project guidelines to meet their individual needs. I also intentionally model openness, enthusiasm, and curiosity to encourage students to take creative risks. I want them to see that art is about exploration and discovery, not perfection.

Collaboration and communication are equally important in my classroom. Students work together at tables, discussing their work, sharing suggestions, and using art vocabulary to describe what they see. This builds community, teaches respect, and strengthens their ability to analyze and express ideas about art. By fostering a classroom culture that celebrates individual expression, collaboration, and experimentation, I aim to help students leave my classroom proud of their work, inspired by the artists we study, and confident in their own creative voices.

Ultimately, I teach because art has the power to engage students in ways that go beyond traditional academics. It allows them to explore their identity, express their ideas, and develop skills that transfer to other areas of learning. Art education is not just about creating something beautiful but about nurturing thinkers, problem-solvers, communicators, and self-expressive individuals. My goal is to help students experience the joy of creating, the satisfaction of discovery, and the confidence to share their unique perspective with the world.