As I read the book, "The Art of Possibility," the second chapter of giving an "A" really spoke to me and also let me know that I actually am on the right track. The chapter begins with the story of Michelangelo talking about how a sculpture is hidden in a piece of rock, and you need to chip away the excess parts to reveal the art. The author compares this in education where the student needs to drop the "excess" to gain mastery and self-expression.
I have an assignment at the beginning ofd the year where my students study themselves and really think about who they want to be and what their Artistic Identity is. I have found that giving this assignment to the students helps them to let go of barriers and also gets to feel more comfortable to their self-expression in my class. They really respond positively to the assignment and I think it helps to set the tone for the year and also get them excited about who they are as an artist. I wanted to share my assignment and also give you all permission to use it if you would like.
Meesh Capeesh said...
Ooo I really like this! How wonderful. I had little moment with my students during the week when we did an improve exercise in creating a mini-movie. As the students started the activity, one pair was completely stoic, void of any creativity. I always wonder how that can be. I have always had such a vivid imagination that I find it hard to understand when students say, "I have no imagination." So maybe something like this can help them find their inner creator.
Michelle, I enjoyed your reflection on this weeks reading. I feel strongly that you become what you think and try hard to keep the right thoughts in my own head. I once read a book that told me that if I was having a horrible day to walk like I was having a great day. I tried it, and soon with some effort my day seemed to magically turn around.
ReplyDeleteWe as human beings tend to accept what ever it is we think. If we think we can do it we will, if we think we cannot do it we wont. Someone out there is looking at us right now and trying to mirror what we are doing. We can at the end of the day be proud for what we have done or we can try to hide. Hopefully I will make my family and friends proud.