Where Imagination Takes Flight: The Liftoff of The Art Classroom

Art education, for me, is a powerful tool for empowerment and self-discovery. I am particularly passionate about serving underrepresented students, fostering a space where their unique voices and perspectives can flourish through artistic expression. My classroom is a vibrant *mantas or *kapa, woven from the diverse backgrounds of my students. I believe in fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity, where all students feel safe to take risks and explore their creativity. 

In my classroom students curiosity will be ignited through connections they may not have though of before through interweaving of topics that may seem so far away from each other. One of these fusions that is a particular favorite of mine is science and art. Art transcends boundaries, and I strive to create a dynamic learning environment that integrates the two topics. We will explore the science behind color theory, the physics of light and perspective, the fascinating world of biomimicry in art, and take an artist eye to cells and the stardust that makes us. This interdisciplinary approach will ignite curiosity, spark critical thinking, and demonstrate the interconnectedness of knowledge.

I also want students to discover that art is a powerful language, and I will encourage my students to use it to share their stories, experiences, and emotions in a constructive way. We will explore various art movements and analyze how artists have used their work to address social and cultural issues. Students will be empowered to create art that reflects their own thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of agency and purpose and calling not only themselves but their fellow students to action about topics they are passionate about.

My role in the classroom is not to dictate their artistic outcomes but to guide students on their creative journeys. I'm not so much worried about the end product, but their thought process and how much the individual student has grown from point A to point B. We will celebrate the process of exploration, experimentation, and problem-solving. Through critiques and discussions, we will develop a growth mindset, learning from successes and failures alike. And the importance of the personal journey, that even though your art looks different from your peers, that does not mean you didn't grow or improve.

In my art room, underrepresented voices are amplified, scientific curiosity is encouraged, and students discover the power of their own creative spark. This is the art education I believe in: a space for inspiration, exploration, and the celebration of all voices. Ultimately, I aspire to ignite a lifelong love of learning, confidence to grow and make mistakes alike and encourage self-expression in all my students. 

*Mantas - colorful blanket woven by women of Peru 

*Kapa - traditional bark cloth of Kanaka Maoli, Native Hawaiians