With budget cuts, art programs and teachers are being cut. In many cases, general ed teachers are given art classes part time. Although I am sure that these gen-ed teachers are doing the absolute best they can, I can't help but to think that as this practice of replacing art teachers with gen-ed teachers continues, it will lead to hearing that phrase, "Are you an artist, or just an art teacher?" much, much, more.
Unfortunately, once we get out of college and start working full time, art making can be a daunting task. For years at art school I made a piece of work at least every two weeks. Now that I am a teacher, I have made only 2 large scale paintings in an entire year. I attribute this mostly to "creative-block" as a result from being burned out from art school, but still, it keeps me up at night.
As an art teacher we MUST keep practicing art. And no, doing student project examples don't count. Enter local art shows, keep a journal, or make it a point to paint something over the summer. I know this is easier said that done, but I am going to try and follow my own advice.
We have to be role models for our students. We are life long artist and teachers. Being an "Artist" and being a "Teacher" are equally important. So the next time someone asks you, "Are you an artist, or just an art teacher?" proudly reply, "I am an Artist-Teacher, come to my classroom and I will show you my personal art and my student's work." So, of course, make sure you have something awesome to show them :)
I ran across this article on yahoo news today. Gregory Euclide is an "artist and teacher" who finds time in his 25 minute lunch break to make inspiring art on his white board. Mr. Euclide, you are an inspiration not only to your students, but to artist-teachers everywhere. We may not all be as accomplished as you, but you are a strong reminder of how we can inspire as teachers. Please look at his photo gallery, and thank you yahoo news for covering such a story.
http://news.yahoo.com/photos/teacher-creates-stunning-whiteboard-art-slideshow/laid-down-wiped-away-photo-1341369058.html
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I'd love to see the attitude toward art teachers shift from teacher to "artist in residence." I'd also like to see general ed. teachers collaborate more with art teachers to integrate the arts into all subjects. Art is a means of communication, and should be given respect as such. Art should not be an elective, it should be considered a vital part of every subject. The art teacher who has students express feelings and interpret reality through paintings and drawings is just as important as the English teacher who teaches students how to write an essay. Art teachers should be regarded as a valuable resource, and treated like the creative professionals they are.
ReplyDeleteI think the trend to consider art teachers as somehow 'less than' professional artists is connected to the trend of devaluing teachers in general. What is an art teacher if not a professional artist? I agree that one needs a solid background in art before teaching it. Perhaps the standards for becoming a teacher should be raised across the board if we are to place higher value on the profession.
Absolutely!!! It is true, all teachers today are undervalued. This became evident with all the discourse around teacher pay. The truth is, when we all decided to become teachers it was because we loved children and we loved the subject we wanted to teach them. I don't think any of us decided to become a teacher because we could sit up, do nothing, and collect a check. We need to work hard to change our public perspective.
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