Revolutionary Leadership through the Art Classroom

by Marie Max-Fritz

for students grade levels 6-12

Goal: 

Create works of art through mutual learning.

Essential Question:

Can revolutionary or liberal learning be applied in the art room?

Studio Application:

    The students productively create art in a mutual learning environment between teacher and student. In the creative freedom that the students use to progress, the art class teacher can still meet the educational standards for art and humanities with the inclusion of multidisciplinary applications. Initially, provide small activities that can be produced while engaging in dialogue regarding various issues, initiated by students. There should be plenty of dialogue between the teacher and student and a sharing of ideas and interests. Begin with an absence of historic documentation or visuals. Gradually introduce visuals related to topics of discussions and activities. After several studio sessions and activities, students and teacher create a comfort zone by engaging in dialogue. When students' independent thought processes begin, they will then decide on the style of art they would like to produce. They create through voluntary decision making in an involuntary situation. Students take ownership of their ability to learn how to improve skills in craftsmanship, processing ideas, and applying creative elements with a desire to learn more. The result is production of artwork in a student-centered classroom that is motivating for students, who are suffering from having limited interests.

Objectives:

Students will:
•    Improve cognitive skills by engaging in dialogue
•    Develop cognitive skills by independently selecting projects
•    Develop motor skills through unrehearsed applications of materials
•    Improve psycho-motor skills by exploring stages of evolution in ideas and processes
•    Create a work of art

Procedure:

1.    Upon first meeting students, introduce project that is slightly goal specific with plenty of room for modification. Give students the option to participate.
2.    Begin dialogue with students.(sit with them, participate, answer their questions, compliment them).
3.    Discuss students' histories, achievements, knowledge, and interests.
4.    Repeat in each class until students begin to reveal their interests and take leadership in what they want to learn and choose a project.  
5.    Introduce materials and related resources for selected project. Introduce materials that may somehow relate to the topic or idea that was selected.
6.    Offer students opportunity to be leaders of tasks: e.g. overseers of equipment or materials
7.    Let students choose what direction they want to go with their projects and processes in conjunction with the available materials, clay or plaster, scissors, etc.