Behind the Scenes with Ms. Stephanie
Stephanie teaches visual arts classes for ages 3-18 for our Out-Of-School Arts Program (OSA), has been a lead adult facilitator and mentor for teen initiatives such as Open Arts Fest and Beauty in Ugly Times, and she teaches arts-infused classes to six 3rd grade classrooms to connect art to science curricula. Art activities are on a weekly basis during school hours where students use 3-D clay (model magic) to mold environments and animals. Learning objectives include identifying physical traits of the animals based on student designs and discussing why they are well suited for certain environments.
What does your at-home setup look like to teach your Living Arts Classes?
I never thought I would be teaching from my living room floor but a pandemic forces us to make surreal adjustments to regular life. So, welcome to my classroom, my office, my art studio, and my Netflix binging nest!
Virtual teaching certainly has its limitations with visual art, particularly regarding supplies, so 'Keep It Simple' is my mantra. Since most students are either working at kitchen tables or bedroom floors, the first half of out-of-school classes focused on drawing with markers in our sketchbooks (from the first round of art kits). Now that we've ALL had some time to get our 'At Home' studios set up AND we've distributed the second round of art supplies, we’ve ventured into watercolor paintings.
How has your setup evolved since you first began teaching virtually?
Since we started back in October, my physical setup has not changed much. What has changed slightly is starting to incorporate more directed art prompts, however freedom of choice, self-expression, and opportunities to share with peers has been the MAIN FOCUS of virtual learning in these times.
What are your hopes for the next 12 months with Living Arts?
One of my favorite aspects of teaching from my couch is that my kitties can make guest appearances (as well as students' pets and siblings and the occasional cousin). Can you see little Chowder sleeping? I really miss in-person teaching and cannot wait to see students in person again but I have seen incredible development in students' art practice as they take control of their creative expression. I hope we've all learned how strong and flexible and caring we can be when the world flips upside down and I hope that we bring our beautiful, creative selves into the new world.
