When we give the students a context within which to learn artistic techniques and strategies they are more focused, motivated and empowered.
Creative Art Teachers aspire to direction learning that takes place in a meaningful fertile arena If the students are allowed to choose a topic about which they would like to conduct a personal or communal inquiry and the opportunity to create artistically from this inquiry will be motivating.
Let me give you an example located in Brisbane. We are now in drought and experiencing third level water restrictions. This means no one can use a hose, water their lawn and of course must take personal responsibility for their water use at all times.
Brisbane is based on the banks of a river and it feels quite odd to be so water poor and water rich at the same time. Recycling, repurified water seems to be our only option for the city at the moment.
This can create a scenario where some try to skirt around the restrictions. Some might try to water their lawns at night; others may wait alone in the house before taking long showers and the like.
This provides the Creative Arts Teacher an opportunity to use the need for personal responsibility as an entry point for inquiry. Students can come to the problem from their own perspective. If they are angry about the restrictions they may want to give this anger voice through body movement. If they have design ideas about how to save water may be they can create a visual depiction and publish their results.
One of the ways I like to engage my classes is to ask each person to brainstorm the way they feel about the whole issue. I then have all the students table their ideas, feelings,
and issues. They can use what ever mode of expression they like to place inner thoughts out where they can be seen.
Encouraging students to take the lead I now ask them to find creative ways to combine it all perspectives in one presentation or performance. Could we create a play using photographs enlarged as back drops? Would class artists rather use paintings and sculpture or think of a way to digitalise the set.
Nothing is impossible at storming time! We will check for practicality and time management as the ideas are refined through group process.
The outcome would be that students gain an insight into the issue from a variety of perspectives.
If this is the way you work too I would love to receive feedback from you about ideas you have
