Letter of Intent

Art is a verbal and visual language used to communicate the ideas and feelings of artists
which means that it should be available to every student. Art should be studied and made
for both its expressive power and its possible power in society. Artists engage in critical
analysis and creative expression, transforming their ideas, experiences, and views of the
world outward for everyone to see. As an art teacher it will be my job to ensure that my
students are given every opportunity to succeed as artists. My students will be young
artists and, as a fellow artist, I will respect their approaches, opinions, and viewpoints and
encourage them to express themselves in both their art and in dialogue in class.
I will endeavor to create a challenging but supportive atmosphere in my classroom. Also
I will structure my classes in a way that encourages dialogue in the context of teaching
students necessary formal and critical skills. The development of a students voice goes
hand in hand with the development of their technical skills. Technical proficiency
provides the self-confidence necessary for emerging artists to express themselves. In my
classes I will place a strong emphasis on exposing students to a range of skills and
techniques involved in constructing their work. But I will balance the structure of the
classroom carefully because the children's natural creativity can be lost when teachers
impose only adult-centered concepts and artworks. Having a good balance between
structure and guided creativity enables me to assist them in the discovery and
development of their own artistic directions. I want to challenge my students to think for
themselves, to stretch their imaginations, and to attempt difficult works. Curiosity and
confidence in ideas and process combined with a critical awareness, enables students to
engage in continuous analysis and observation of their world.
In my class, I want to invite risk-taking in art making and art thinking that questions the
status quo and searches for personal or social truths. Exploring the contribution of diverse
artists to the world community opens children's beliefs and encourages pride in being an
artist. This can be achieved through critical multicultural art education. Which is what I
intend to teach. I want my students exposed to as many different art styles, techniques,
and skills as possible. I feel that in todays society where people from all around the
world, artists need to have a well-rounded education that exposes them and gives them
knowledge of art from as many cultures and societies as possible. I want my students to
constantly question the society, the world they live in. Because it is only through
questioning, analysis, and action that has caused people to advance and change the world
we live in.
I hear there is great satisfaction in witnessing my future students growing independence
and I look forward experiencing that when I become a teacher. I know that watching them
learn about themselves, develop skills, make historical and cultural connections and
emerge as young artists with unique views will invigorate my own artistic imagination
and make me a better artist as well.