Student Work - Portfolio
Teaching Philosophy
Teaching ceramics as a studio art is an incredible opportunity for me to pass on my passion for the ceramic medium. The core of my teaching philosophy is to encourage the creative process with personal innovation through experimentation. Along with the specifics of the ceramic medium, the fundamental building blocks of my ceramic/art courses are to instill skills in: ideation, creative problem solving, and critical thinking.
-Ideation is engaged by incorporating structured freedom into class assignments that embolden the use of divergent thinking. Projects are open for individual interpretation to foster self-exploration through creative idea development. Students learn through self-exploration and trial and error, which builds self-confidence and confidence in the medium.
-Creative problem solving skills are developed through facing unforeseen challenges and discovering innovative solutions through examination, education, and perseverance. By presenting goal driven challenges that necessitate transdisciplinary research aids learners in the facilitation and realization of conceptual ideas. The actualization of the idea can become clarified by a collection of imaginative solutions to any given technical or communicative obstacle.
-Critical thinking skills are honed by introducing new and unfamiliar materials, methods and concepts. Students are asked to respond conceptually and formally with consideration of their own personal experiences and observations. Reflective thinking, reasoning and open-minded considerations are implemented in the analysis of the options and the decisions reflected in the art.
By establishing a learning environment that is safe, tolerant, and prolific with a directed passion, students are supported in freethinking and in expressing their artistic goals. These are not only qualities that are used in art classes but also skills that can be utilized in nearly every aspect of a person’s education, career and journey through life.
As a ceramic instructor I function as a facilitator, a materials expert, artist, technical advisor, critic, resource and artistic guide. By inspiring and stimulating students, individuals are compelled to select their own creative goals, within a well-prepared strategy, to encourage exceptional, distinctive and intimate art. By functioning as a guide and teaching individuals fundamental creative skills, I play a critical role in the success of that person in any career he or she may choose.