Overview of Visual Art Education and Community Development Methods

​The Pow​er of Visual Art 

I view art as an essential tool for self-actualization as well as a vehicle for transformation. Art is experiential, it engages the individual making it, as well as the viewer. Global education, environmentalism, cultural understanding, celebrating diversity and interdependence are important core strands throughout my teaching and various community partnerships.  In my classes and student groups, the language of art is used to explore some of the most pressing social issues of our time- the issues students care about most. The curriculum is responsive, high quality, accessible, and learning is integrated in the desired, achievable outcomes. Art is provocative, can generate curiosity, gently infusing a community with ideas, promoting discussion and critical thinking. The impact of these projects may be subtle, yet provide a catalyst for change to occur in both the viewer and maker.
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Below: painted stakes as part of the "Youth as Stakeholders Project" displayed at all candidates meetings, and created as part of a democracy engagement initiative.
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YOUTH AS STAKEHOLDERS


​Service Learning

Service learning is once example of community building beyond the school. Partnering with organizations in the community, student projects provide a service to the organization as part of the course-credit. Students learn about various issues, serving others, building community, and leadership, while developing empathy and compassion for others. Participants rise to the challenge, often revealing their hidden gifts while discovering new passions. 
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Below: This collection of student photographs about Happiness and Resiliency, were on display at the Provincial Public Health Conference in Sudbury.
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PUBLIC HEALTH CONFERENCE ON RESILIENCY


​Community Partnerships and  Public Exhibitions

Art exhibitions held in public spaces extend the experience and learning by sharing the projects more broadly. Building community partnerships celebrates and increases confidence in our publicly funded education system.
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POSTER CONTEST FOR SPARK Photo Festival