Abilene Martinez

Art 133
Amber Ward
November 2, 2015
Structures and Systems
My professor explained that structures are underlying and consciously and unconsciously
guide the creation of artworks. It also adopts and disrupts boundaries. Artists use basic formal
structures to communicate meanings, ideas, and narratives.
Before taking this class, I knew that the arts were important. However, I did not know
that the arts can teach so much to children. Eisner (2002) in his article explains for example, that
the arts can teach children that one problem can have more than one solution and that questions
can have more than one answer, it also shows multiple perspectives and many ways to see and
interpret the world, also that small differences can have a large effect, and so forth. I know that
these are good qualities to learn and they can be learned in a creative way and thats by using art.
Walker (2001) discusses ways in which teachers can introduce art in a classroom. At times its
hard to think about a Big Idea that can engage children; however Walker gives examples of big
ideas like: identity, power, fantasy and reality, and so forth. He gives so much information about
key concepts, self-assessment questions, artists, and key points that would be helpful. I will
include time for my students to do art and give them a big idea so they can be successful and
learn many things on their own. When my professor had the big idea of Vulnerability, I learn that
I need to be more understanding and not judge people because of their actions because I dont
know their life and what they are going through. It is good to have a structure by using systems.
Resources
Eisner, E. (2002). The arts and the creation of mind. New Haven, CT: Yale University
Press.

Walker, S. (2001). Teaching meaning in artmaking. Worchester, MA: Davis.