PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION

Creativity is one of the most fundamental traits that make us human. It is a unique and defining trait of our species. When creative potential is fully realized, it has the power to make order out of chaos, turn desperation into progress and to bring joy and meaning into people's lives.

The quest to find something new and different is what drives invention and the ever-expanding evolution of knowledge .The role of creative intelligence, the ability to show empathy, respect and compassion toward others can be taught and should be woven into the curriculum in every aspect and in arts education in particular. Self-reliance and perseverance are necessary components in the intellectual and emotional development of a person and must be nurtured from early education into liberal studies and the humanities and with the sciences in every aspect.

The task of the teacher should be to provide a carefully structured curriculum and a life-supporting environment, but to then refrain from intrusive interference or anticipation of expected outcomes. A teacher should always be able to adapt to questions, conflicts and mishaps and to use them as an opportunity to promote conflict resolution and peacemaking.

It is the duty and the privilege of the teacher to share with them a reverence and a passion for learning , to continually nurture their curiosity so that they will enjoy a lifetime of inquiry, experimentation and discovery.

We have often heard how an unexamined life is not worth living, but I think it more apt that an enjoyed life is one that examines and questions and wonders.

ARTIST STATEMENT

My intention in my work is not so much to tell a story but to express my fascination with the beauty of the earth and with its mystery and complexity.

My inspiration comes from the sublime intricacy of nature and from a clear but mysterious perception of the divine that permeates all of life. While exploring the realm of emotions, I am more interested in the images that the subconscious mind brings forth than in the portrayal of a single, obvious idea. By allowing these feelings to surface, I become more aware of the frailties, strengths and the resilience of the human spirit and so I try to find a way to express that spirit through images and color as a salve for myself and as a meditation.

My art informs my philosophy of teaching in that I believe in encouraging a direct and rigorous observation of the real world using basic academic principles as a springboard for imaginative and intuitive drawing and painting.

My goal is to enable effective expression of a thought, feeling or idea and for the students to become passionately involved in the relentless human endeavor of exploring and questioning the nature of things whether it be through science, art or spirituality and to find enrichment and self-knowledge through the expression of that quest.

My belief is that life should not just be examined but enjoyed and that one can be fulfilled through continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible and being a part of making that happen in however that expression finds its form.