What is your teaching philosophy?

In art education, I believe it is the role of an educator to facilitate a space in which students learn not only how to problem solve, but also how to think critically about the world around them and translate that visually. These beliefs are rooted in my own practice as an artist, in which I set out into the environment to search for and explore neglected spaces, the anti-attractions of the urban environment. I seek to encourage students to experiment in and beyond their respective media to discover their own visual language. Experienced in oil, watercolor, ink, and charcoal, I can offer students a wealth of knowledge in working in these media and gaining technical proficiency. I believe that in order for a young artist to express their ideas well on a visual level, he or she must attain a level of skill that will make them competitive in the art world. However, I also believe a young artist must be well versed in the conceptual side of art. The student must have a firm grounding in art history and be aware of what is happening in the art world. I expect to facilitate a growth in this knowledge through one-on-one conversations with the students, in which I would find out what their interests are and learn more about them as artists and as individuals. Though my teaching experience is limited, I have found in my time as a teaching assistant in Painting and Drawing that students respond best to a healthy combination of positive and critical feedback on their progress. Students need to know what their strengths and weaknesses are, and how best to improve and build upon their skill sets. My aim is to encourage students to reach and surpass their potential so that they can progress without the input of an instructor and sustain a long-term practice.

What might you do in a typical first session with a student?

I would get to know who they are academically, their likes and dislikes of the tutored subject, and ask what their expectations are.

How can you help a student become an independent learner?

I would encourage them to take risks and to not be afraid of trying new ways of learning and discipline.