For the past few weeks my 12-13 year old students have been working on a tapestry project based off an image they found in the news. Now, I totally goofed on the ends per inch, and our warp thread was not ideal, so the first week of warping and beginning to weave was incredibly frustrating. Needless to say, most of the kids didn't get very far. But after profusely apologizing, showing them how to fix the ends per inch snafu, and presenting them with tapestry needles to work with, our second week of weaving was far more successful.
I feel really honored to work with this group of kids. It amazes me how focused, intent, and persistent they are in their artmaking. They each find ways to solve problems and for the most part they pay attention to craftsmanship.
Persistence is one of the Studio Habits of the Mind cultivated through art education, and perhaps is overlooked- but I feel like it's one of the most valuable qualities a person can learn through the arts. Don't give up so easily! Work through frustrations to come through on the other side, reaching your goal. It can be applied to all areas of life that challenge us.
Now, if only they would sketch something other than dragons, flowers, and peace signs during free draw time...
No comments:
Post a Comment