JCHS has develop some core values that we feel are important to help you be prepared for the real world after high school. Below are 4 of those values and how they look in the art room. As you create art and interact with classmates, put these values into practice.
Choose Integrity
To act with respect and to do the right thing.
Respect should be given to fellow students, materials and to me, as your teacher. This should be reflected in your words, actions and attitudes. Integrity with fellow students means that you are always kind and give them the benefit of the doubt. Integrity with materials means that you take care of our supplies and room being careful to conserve materials when possible while following the proper safety and clean up procedures. Respect for me, your teacher, means you listen when I am talking and follow my directions. Another way you can act with integrity is in the area of copyright as it pertains to other artist's work. Although we may copy work as a way to practice and learn, it is never acceptable to present artwork that was created by another artist as your own.
Be Fearless
Be unafraid to take intentional risks.
Fear is a very real part of the art making process. It strikes beginning artists and famous artist alike. Some fears come from within. This is what is often referred to as the inner critic. It is that small voice inside of all of us that constantly sends out negative thoughts. We fear messing up and doing the assignment wrong. Some people are perfectionist, and are never satisfied with the end results of the work. Being judged by others is also a common fear in the art room. Artist often worry about what others will think of their work.
In this class, I would like you to be fearless and take chances. Turn off that voice inside your head that says you are not good enough. The reality is that mistakes teach us lessons enabling us to grow. They are a vital part of the learning process. In fact, some of our mistakes become the best part of our artwork. If you are a perfectionist, letting go and enjoying the art making process is especially difficult for you. With some work, you will find the joy of art is in the journey and not in the product. Remember, this class is about learning and is not for those who have already reached their peak.
We are better together than we are alone. Collaborating in the art room takes many forms. Although we do some group collaboration, there are many opportunities daily to collaborate with our classmates. This may take the form of helping someone who doesn't understand the project or is struggling with a technique. It also means that during times when we critique each other's work, we are aware of the artist's feeling. Choosing constructive words to help others improve is a must. Never tear down someone else's work. At the same time, we want our comments to be authentic and helpful. Look for ways you can build up other students in our class. Seek peace so that everyone has a great experience each day.
Strive for Excellence
Work to do our best in all areas.
It doesn't matter at what level you are producing art, always strive to do your best. Your best may look different than the person beside you. That is okay as long as it is your best. One of the great things about art is that it doesn't all need to look the same. Work on creating a style that is all your own. Even if you are producing above level art work, you still need to put forth your best effort. Doing your best means listening, looking and working on all aspects of the project. You can not skip steps or rush through your work and get your best results.