As an artist, my teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student has the potential to create skillful, meaningful artwork. To encourage the students to feel confident in their art career, it is essential to implement a progressive teaching methodology that includes exposing students to different perspectives by creating activities centered on collaboration. I will also establish a routine that allows the students to concentrate their mental energy on creating. Ultimately, I will promote a safe environment where students feel comfortable sharing their artwork and do so by viewing and grading their work with an open mind.

Throughout my life, creating art has been my way of communicating with the world and connecting with others; I aim to inspire my students to embrace art as an outlet. Exposing the students to the many possibilities art has in applying to everyday life will enhance their understanding and appreciation for the subject. Implementing activities that require students to engage in discussions and share their thoughts and beliefs can foster a more reflective thinking style, which will enhance their art careers. Once students are provided with this framework, they can engage through a student-centered approach that will motivate them to participate and approach the class with an open mind.

To support my philosophy, I intend to incorporate group participation in activities, including discussions centered on critiquing both seen and created art. When students encounter new ideas and learn to approach art both objectively and subjectively, they will develop diverse ideologies that will reduce prejudice in their cognition and encourage them to create with greater intention. As a result, students’ work will gain significance, and their technical abilities will improve via the time spent sharing insights and recommendations with one another.

Additionally, to help the students succeed in the classroom, I will create routines that will provide them with the structure necessary to prepare themselves for the day, such as establishing a routine at the beginning of the class to help the students settle into the classroom environment and prepare for the lesson, alongside a routine at the end of class that will allow the students time to assimilate the newly acquired material. Creating an entry and exit routine gives students a clear expectation of the day's structure, promoting greater creativity during their work periods. When students work at their full potential, their artwork will have more significance and expressiveness.

Above all, when evaluating the students' work, I intend to focus on the amount of effort and their adherence to the project objectives. Acknowledging and valuing their efforts is crucial in fostering appreciation and recognition. I strive to ensure students feel welcomed and safe expressing themselves through their work by demonstrating appropriate classroom norms. I will reach this goal by implementing daily reminders in the classroom, providing constructive feedback on previous assignments, and establishing expectations before students share their work with one another. Once students feel secure, they can comfortably explore deeper elements of their work.

Teaching art resembles teaching a foreign language since it requires students to use new tools to articulate their thoughts and convey messages. Allowing students to present their artwork to their peers facilitates a unique method of communication that broadens their viewpoints and enhances cognitive development. This methodology aligns with my progressive teaching philosophy and will encourage an inclusive classroom.

As a teacher, I recognize that students possess diverse backgrounds in creating and viewing art, which may induce stress among them. By creating a welcoming classroom through active participation and social development, my teaching approach will reduce stress and encourage students to share their unique ideas and work. I believe fostering a sense of individuality and creativity is crucial in cultivating an appreciation for the many possibilities art offers in their lives.