The intellectual, emotional, social and cultural development of youth is effectively fostered, through art education. In this changing world, skills of adaptation including creative thinking and problem solving must be taught for youth to reach their fullest learning potential. Providing youth with opportunities to pursue what is personally relevant while also bringing new awareness of the world around them and developing artistic skills is the responsibility of the Art Educator. The art room as studio is an environment in which students can learn to tap into the content of their lives and learn to communicate visually with increasing skill. Art in a student’s life is about exploration in a hands-on and immediate way. The studio classroom provides a space for students to develop confidence in their own ideas, in their own art making processes, in their own interests and in the skill of collaboration. As much as possible the teacher provides students with an appropriate level of responsibility. With experience in art making, exposure to art history, culture, and aesthetics, a foundation is laid for a lifelong love and appreciation of art and learning. Students develop confidence in a studio workspace where creativity is valued. This will provide the world with a creative work force that is resilient, confident and skilled in working together.

Michelle Zuccaro
Art Educator