Class Critique

Since one of the attendees told me I should give a class critique I thought I would do so but not in regards to the class's artwork. Not wanting to dampen any flames and hoping only to fan them I declined but will critique and write about my own performance instead.  

Despite the fact that I never taught a class before I was very excited when Mindy asked me to do so as it meant I could check another one off my bucket list. I have wanted to teach a class for some time now but I know my limitations. 

"Imagine...

what if your greatest dream is

also your greatest fear"...

not my lines...these words appeared as graffiti on the Berlin Wall..pictured in a piece of artwork I purchased for my granddaughter...the more I read the words the more they seemed meant for me though. I felt challenged to give teaching a try.    

As the instructor I found the class to be a very enlightening experience and I learned volumes in that short span of 5 hours. While teaching was new for me rolling with the unexpected was not.  With four students confirmed I prepared for 5 just in case there was a walk in.  We ended up with 6 in lovely but very cozy corners. I apologize to the student I continually asked to move so I could get to the two students at the back table. I hated to disturb her but I had no other choice... learning to leap tall buildings in a single bound may be a new addition to my bucket list if I continue to teach.

As the class started I briefly patted myself on the back for packing enough supplies for 5 and began to share...a half hour into our session classmate number 6 arrived...this time I really had to scrounge for supplies and ended up giving up the shims and vintage hardware I brought to use as a teaching tool then cutting the legs off of my finished collage so there would be enough to go around.  I had no problem doing this as I realized that this art class was taking on a theme of it's own and it was called...

Wing it.    

With enough supplies in hand we continued while I improvised every move...great practice for me and what I sort of planned for...to let art just happen, but on a level I did not imagine. All in all I believe the information I gave was valuable, the goal to create a housed bird assemblage was accomplished, and the end results...despite the not so perfect arrangement was as you will see from the picture... worth the participants time and effort. Sincere thanks to everyone that came! 

Now here is some good news. Both Mindy and I decided that we need more room if we are to do more classes and the management company at her shopping center is willing to let us use their conference room for classes.  We are meeting soon to discuss the possibilities and who knows there may be more classes to come ;) 

 

Comments

[DogsMom]

You are growing in all directions and seem to be having great experiences. One thing I learned from past days as a scout leader and church school and playground crafts person, prepare with more supplies than you think you'll ever need, and be flexible with the expectations. Offer options or everyone will want to use the same colors as you demonstrate with. The students' creativity expands with the second and third projects but the first one they tend to want to copy so the teacher will approve. Always express desire for them to put their own spin on any project. It looks like you achieved that.

[candyce]

thank you for your input. very helpful and appreciated!

[Mindy]

You did an amazing job and NO ONE ever expected that it was your first time teaching a class. I was truly amazed at what your students accomplished and the creativity was astonishing. Looking forward to more room and more classes!

[candyce]

thank you mindy ;)

[Jean Elliott]

Can't wait to see what your next classes are! Hopefully I'll be able to attend one.

[candyce]

Thank you Jean!! If it all works out I would love to have you there...happy creating!