This is a collection of my students’ work from San Francisco State University’s Conceptual Information Art Classes, San Jose State Digital Media Classes, and Cabrillo College’s Art Photography Classes.
Courses Taught
I have taught Digital Media, Photography and Theatre Arts Classes over the past 9 years.
I approach teaching the way I approach making art. I become a student, searching for knowledge and asking questions. Teaching for me becomes an art form. It is crafted with experience and technique but it becomes art with inspiration and this willingness to learn and question. I believe that as a teacher my job is to inspire and challenge a student to access her or his greatest potential in the moment. Through individual connection and questioning I find ways to encourage and nurture the growth of each student. The goal is for each student to have a greater understanding of the practice of art making and an ability to articulate this understanding. This articulation includes the student's own art practice, a theoretical and historical context of her or his practice, and an understanding of other students' practices. Sharing knowledge and experience is important, but so is encouragement and development of each individual's unique voice in creating art which communicates a point of view.
Because I'm a practicing artist, my approach and adaptability is fresh and invigorating. As a practicing professional I strive to keep on top of current cultural theories, practices, and technologies in the field of new media. I believe it is imperative for me as a teacher to maintain my own art practice and active research.
In the classroom I emphasize the need to articulate concepts and context. I use the critique as a means for discussion, analysis, and probing. A critique is many things both formal and intimate. A critique can be a simple means to get feedback but it can also serve as a place to investigate current cultural theories The critique is a tool for students to gain an understanding, of relevant art practice.
Throughout class sessions I introduce questions that create the flow of deconstruction and self-awareness. A question may not be easily answered but the student has a chance to develop problem solving skills, articulation of conceptual thinking, and an understanding of meaningful image making.
I define teaching as an active verb. It is not fixed nor is it passive. And it is from this active place that I pursue tangible outcomes for students.
Teaching
