Frequently Asked Questions

What about grades?

Our classroom, set up as a learning studio, offers opportunity and flexibility for varied approaches to art to suit diverse learning styles. Every student has many opportunities to learn and grow in ways that are rigorous and relevant. Grades are a great way to communicate how students are progressing.

There are two grades given in Art class. Both grades are based on a school-wide procedure and follow a four-point scale. The first grade is for student behavior and participation. This is determined by a student's self-reflection and the documentation from the teacher. The second grade is given for development and skills.
Student reflection on their progress is a part of the grading system. Projects and explorations are required, but students have choice in how they fulfill those requirements. ​

How is the classroom set up?

The Art Room is an Art Studio! ​Our classroom is set up as a learning studio. It offers opportunities, flexibility, and a variety of choices to suit all learners. You can find a detailed explanation and a map at the link: The Art Studio that explains which centers are available and why. There is not any homework given for students in art class, but rather, they are tasked with coming to Art with ideas at the ready, and a growth mindset that is ready to shine!

What is this "Hands, Head,
​and Heart" business?

“We are born makers. We move what we’re learning from our heads to our hearts through our hands.” -Brené Brown

Inspired by John Crowe and the "Hands, Head, and Heart" mentality, Art class is a format for discussing how artists and makers engage in making by utilizing their hands, head, and heart by focusing on what artists do, what they think about, and how they are feeling. 

As John Crowe described it, "My mission was to make a dramatic point about artistic behavior. It was my opinion that my students needed to really play and truly care."

“Fine art is that in which the hand, the head, and the heart of man go together.”
—John Ruskin, 1859
​
“You need the eye, the hand, and the heart. Two won’t do.”
—David Hockney, 2012

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Teamwork

When a student brings home artwork instead of simply praising it, please ask the artist to tell you about the piece. Why did you make it? How did you make it? Where did you find inspiration? What materials did you use?

We always appreciate donations! Many different materials can be used for collage and sculpture. ​Wood scraps? Send them in! Leftovers from craft projects? We will put them to good use. Odd scraps of wrapping paper and wallpaper? Excellent.Wire hangers, corks, and straws, oh my!