And so we begin!

I like to ask a big question at the start of each year (or trimester, in this case). It is interesting to see how student artists respond to big questions. In the past I have asked: “What is Art?” or “Why make art?” Once I asked “What is the purpose of art.”

Some 8th Grade Boys' Responses

This year I realized that the 8^th graders, for the first time in this school, are ones I “raised” from 5^th graders 3 years ago. These are my 8^th graders. And, the incoming 5^th graders have just come from an elementary program where choice-based art was introduced last year. So these 5^th graders are the first batch of kids I have ever received who have had a prior experience in a student-directed studio art setting. Exciting stuff!
 

So the question I asked was easy for my students to answer: WHAT KIND OF ARTIST ARE YOU?

Some 5th Grade responses

Students might say they are a painter or a potter, or maybe a portrait artist or a landscape artist. Some said they were fiber artists and one an abstract expressionist. My 8^th graders have had 3 years to discover the answer to this question, and the new 5^th graders are enthusiastic about developing their skills and ideas around subjects or media that they are exploring.

Some 8th grade girls' reponses



"The Book" is Here at Last!

I am THRILLED to announce the debut of our book: The Learner-Directed Classroom!!!

This is an anthology I have been working on with my colleague Diane Jaquith. It illustrates how learner-directed practice looks and works in real classrooms at all levels. Contributors to the book are experienced teachers interested in learner-autonomy, creativity and a new vision for art education – and education generally. 
Did I mention that I am THRILLLLLLED!!! Thank you Diane for suggesting this project - It is an inspiring collection and a valuable resource. Thank you also to all the contributors - You are my heroes.

The book will be available in September, but you can pre-order now!

Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/d6ace4e
Teacher's College Press:  http://store.tcpress.com/0807753629.shtml