Steven Rachmuth Philosophy of Teaching Statement Self-Exploration Explored The process of art making is one in which everyone can

succeed. As an educator of fine arts, I will maintain a cooperative and creative environment in which I can provide as much individualized attention as possible. Creating an intimate, supportive environment in which to give regular and constructive feedback is critical to the role of a facilitator in creative education. Expertise should be shared by all members of a learning community, not simply the instructor. For me, it is also critical that classroom content be as diverse as possible, so that all students see themselves included in the art and artists about which they learn. As students build a creative project through conceptual exploration, they need the confidence to translate their intentions into physical practice. I am excited to encounter students who represent a variety of differences in backgrounds, experiences, and learning styles. Great art education considers the individual needs of the artist, and every student must first be made to realize that he or she is a valuable art maker. My job is to ensure that every student is given the opportunity to realize his or her full potential. Students are expected to create art with integrity, effort, and craftsmanship and will only be judged in those terms. No two artists will create the same piece nor will any two artists compete in rank; these fundamental ideologies are a backbone of my art instruction. As an art educator, my job is to support, encourage, critique, and teach. In class, connections to traditional and contemporary art, free play and exploration of materials, and self-evaluation will be engrained in each project and unit. Adaptation, accommodation, and personal modifications will be supported so that every single student realizes that their artwork deserves pride.