There may be nothing more rewarding than seeing another gain confidence and let go of intellectual and emotional insecurities as they learn and express themselves. By gaining an understanding and learning new skills, a bridge of confidence can be built, leading students to become optimistic and familar during the process of learning and in future learning endeavors.
Throughout my own education, experiences with art allowed me to gain the reassurance necessary to believe that I could be capable in additional content areas. For others, as well as myself, art bridges the gap between focus areas. Art has the capacity to become a tool used to open students up socially, emotionally and academically.
I believe in sharing with others my passion for art, perhaps passing on this passion, or at the least, instilling a well due respect for artistic understanding and expression. My decision to become an art educator was based on a number of factors. Above all however, my own admiration for artistic understanding and expression encouraged me to share the adoration with others.
Surrounded by many and a variety of people, I have been molded to both respect and appreciate diversity. Variation and diversity is throughout and within ourselves and the world around us. One can only succeed if to accept and appreciate it. One thing that the entire world spectrum has in common is artistic expression. Art can be used in and out of the classroom as a tool to promote acceptance and appreciation for this spectrum. The arts are further capable of bridging the gap between diversities.
The educator has many roles in the classroom, but amongst and foremost, the dducator should be sure to place an emphasis on providing opportunity for their students. An educator can open doors and construct connections for their students as an artist opens doors for themselves and for future artists. Educators can provide students with an opportunity and the tools necessry to explore artistci matters for themselves. Students can be taught to be independant and persistant learners, searching for their own answers to their own questions, bulding their own bridges.