“Pedagogy must not be a science, it must be an art. And where is the art, which can be learned without dwelling constantly in the feelings? But the feelings in which we must live in order to practice that great art of life, the art of education, are only kindled by contemplation of the great universe and its relationships with man.” Rudolf Steiner

Effective teaching invites students to participate in a process that transports them to a level of self-awareness making education a life long process. Effective teaching requires a constant commitment to mentoring.  Through mentoring students learn self-imposed tools of discipline, determination, hard work and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. In the absence of those qualities it is not possible to learn the refined details of any area of inquiry since knowledge is often cloaked in obscurity. As mentor, I demonstrate the process of disciplined inquiry to my students.

As a result of many years, first of being taught and then of teaching, I have refined my abilities to relate to each student as an individual. Teaching art is not a linear process. Students must be approached as individuals. My teaching is based around providing a physical and psychological environment that is conducive to learning, creative expression and growth. Paramount in my approach to teaching is a positive and nurturing attitude towards the individual student. Negative words and confrontation, although sometimes necessary, should be used as a last resort when the student is unable or unwilling to respond to positive criticism and suggestions about the tasks at hand. It is the student’s responsibility to demonstrate commitment to learning. Without disciplined commitment and the student’s willingness to match my efforts in the pedagogical process, effective teaching will not happen.

Individual feedback and interaction with the student is important and done on a continual basis. I make myself accessible to the student in class and after class by offering a cordial receptive attitude towards questions. No question is too trivial. In addition to being accessible to students, I strive to provide information of a technical nature as well as exposure to contemporary and historical trends in art. I provide regular handouts, slide presentations, videotapes, field trips and at least one guest artist per semester so that students are exposed to various ways of working. It is my responsibility to enable the student through providing the means and insight to creative expression.