C L A I R E   H   L E R N E R

Artist  as Teacher Statement

 

As an exhibiting and working artist I feel that it is my responsibility to bring my passion for all of the visual arts into the classroom/studio. I believe that this is a crucial element to the success of any teacher of visual arts. I share my early and current experiences with photography/art with my students and talk about the fascination that all of the visual arts holds for me. Discussing a recent exhibition or sharing my excitement about a recent article brings a sense of wonder, passion and exploration into the classroom/studio. Teaching in the rich photographic culture of the Monterey Peninsula in California offers all students a rare opportunity to visit historic sites and gives them a first hand introduction to world renowned photographers and artists. I feel strongly that students should participate in field trips to museum exhibitions and galleries. I believe in the importance of writing, observing and participating in-group discussions and critiques. As a teacher of visual arts, I am constantly enriched and inspired by the passion, creativity and insights of my amazing students. It is a privilege and honor to help facilitate their creative growth and self-fulfillment. I am currently teaching high school studio art and darkroom photography at the Santa Catalina School in Monterey, California, earlier in my teaching career I taught at Monterey Peninsula College also in Monterey, California.