#doyourjob

My Views On Art Education

Making art is the mastering fundamental theory, composition, and technical proficiency. I’m not describing my art preference as a “anti-contemporary art” view, but rather defending the foundational artistic values that many “ordinary” people still deeply respect: craftsmanship, discipline, visual literacy, originality, and meaningful personal expression - even existential if you will. Yes, very Gen X. Although I can appreciate modern art, there are area and concepts I struggle with

My education focused on mastering classical techniques and the physical execution of a medium. I do understand the importance of underlying ideas, messages, or irony that is communicated in modern art, but I don’t think these concepts should trump the ability, or development, of the craft and the skillsets in making aesthetically beautiful art. The explanation should not matter more than the object itself - the represented art should not be detached from public meaning

Craft vs Concept

I was trained to look for vital harmony and communicative storytelling. I sometimes struggle with modern artwork that disregards these rules as the artist seem to rely instead on obscure statements of the artist. I can’t but feel that this approach to art making feels exclusionary and/or pretentious; the work requires insider knowledge to “get it” because the piece appears intentionally obscure leaving ordinary viewers dismissed if they don’t understand it. It’s a narcissistic view that such emotionally charged art exhibitionism is rewarded by elite institutions where (I feel) “anything can be art” is taken to far.

"Emperor's New Clothes”

Traditional art forms were judged on verisimilitude and aesthetic appeal. Today's movement largely abandons these, treating art as a vehicle for social commentary or shock value rather than visual pleasure.

Rejection of Representational Beauty

My approach to art education also stems from the belief that strong creative work is built on this foundation. While contemporary art continues to evolve conceptually, I believe students benefit most from first leaning how to truly see, design, construct, communicate, and create with intention.

Students in my class will not only be encouraged to think creatively, take risks, and develop their own voice, but also to value preparation, perseverance, craftsmanship, and creative integrity. They’ll learn that meaningful art is not just about ideas, but about the ability to thoughtfully bring those ideas to life - communicating visually in a increasingly distracted world

My Approach To Art Education

My Views On Art