Dear Readers,
During my AMI training there were many discussions between the trainer and the students regarding the development of artistic potential in elementary children. I perceived two camps when it came to these discussions and no real research was provided to prove the point of view for either side.
Therefore, I feel the need to provide a brief warning about the curriculum.
I make three assumptions about the development of artistic ability in the 6-9 year old. First, I assume that showing the best techniques respects the child's potential and is preferable to watering down technique in order to make it seem less intimidating. Second, I assume that tracing, to some extent, is an appropriate way to practice art technique, in the same way that muscle memory and hand/eye coordination is developed through tracing metal insets. Finally, I assume the philosophy of Picasso that the development of the artist is a cycle that begins with the most basic abstraction, is developed through specific training in classical art techniques before the artist can begin their return to abstraction. This means that the lessons are designed to be very specific in the instruction of art principles and techniques.
These lessons will not be brief introductions before a period of "free art" Although my concept of "free art" and the way I organize my classroom to allow for and encourage such expression will be addressed in a future post.
I hope these lessons are inspiring and helpful.
Sincerely,
Emily
