We are off to a start of another school year.
The art schedule is quite herky-jerky now, but that will be remedied in the next few weeks, I expect. Some of your children have probably mentioned that at home.
I am optimistic and we are doing lots of new projects at various grade levels. Here is one for 4th grade. I came across this video as I want the students to know more about Lois Elhert - the wildly successful artist illustrator, as we used her book "Cuckoo" as a jumping off point.
Students made "articulated" birds that are now flying in the hallway. This is a fun lead-in to the next artist we learn about - Charlie Harper. (In teaching terms that is called "scaffolding" - specific incremental skill/concept building).
BUT - back to the video- this is personal for me. Lois Elhert talks about the importance of having a work space as a child. Many of my students have told me about how they too have a space to make art at home. That is SO important for their development as healthy humans.
https://youtu.be/GVJpfUdWFXE
The personal truth in this is that I had a workspace during my childhood too - and it was an emotional refuge, as art continues to be for me today. My childhood was rocky, with divorce and unsettled parents - but my work area was a waiting place for me, a place of mental engagement and a place of peace. Making art (stuff) can be so soothing.
I know that is why I truly LOVE art, (as sappy as that sounds) it has been my best friend, my companion through many upsetting times.
(I have more stories, of art keeping me afloat during rough times, but enough for now).
Even if you don't want your children to grow up to be artists (or cowboys - I do have a son who is a cowboy!...) teaching them self-calming skills and practices are a life long gift.
I honor my role as your child's art teacher. Thank you for the opportunity.
Sincerely-
Nancy Helmsworth
