Art is a Verb
Classroom expectations
by Marla Wade
August 14, 2006
"ART IS A VERB"
"Art is a verb" is a quote from the book Art and Fear . It expresses the most important element of art - DOING IT! That is my main expectation from my students in art. "Creative thinking requires the ability to identify and formulate problems, as well as the ability to generate alternative solutions." We try to encourage the students to explore different medias and styles, as well as to appreciate work that past artists have done. How do their styles differ? How are they alike?
Grading involves:
A) Fluency (Quality of ideas). This can be enhanced by RESEARCH
B) Flexibility (Variety of ideas) Try different medias.
C) Originality (Unusual or unique ideas) Working from personal photos or setting up a still life or model.
D) Elaboration (Details) Technique used by the student.
E) The ability to work independently -ART IS A VERB.
NO TRACING.
Grading:
A+ 100 Perfect, could not be improved. (RARE). Well researched. Good for ANY age.
A 98-95 Well done, maybe could use more shading or design, but well done for age ability and training status.
A- 94 Well done but missing a component. i.e. Shading, perspective, proportion, creativity.
B+ 92 Pretty well done, somewhat simplified. Needs more detail.
B 90 ANY COPY, even well done - unless specifically assigned. It's somebody else's idea.
B 90-88 Shows effort but needs developed.
C+ 85 Maybe trying but effect not quite achieved.
C 84-78 Work has been turned in. It's very simplified, maybe hurried. Needs to go back to the basics, shading, composition, originality. Drawing can ALWAYS be improved by gridding and shading.
D 77-70 Work is in but shows total lack of concern for perspective, shading, detail or those components.
F 50 Half done - half grade.
F 0 Not turned in when given ample time. TRACING - NOT STUDENT'S WORK!
Use of class time is essential. If there is time to sit, there is time to sketch. "ART IS A VERB"
This year we have new desks and chairs which I am excited about. Students must be very careful with them and are expected to use a cardboard base when cutting and to protect them at all times. The chairs are on wheels, like a drafting table and chair. Given the professional feel for the work environment, I anticipate some wonderful art work!!!
