Fieldtrips

Everyone knows that Artprize is happening in Grand Rapids right now. People are traveling far distances to come and participate in the voting, and to do their part in clogging up the sidewalks. This event is enjoyable for all ages, young and old, every type of person, and even families. However, it is something that is generally experienced in ones own free time, on a nice weekend off work perhaps.

Recently, I visited Artprize under different circumstances. My sculpture class went downtown and looked at the art together as a group, students and professor. This type of classroom trip is a really great way to get students involved in any lesson, and it promotes deeper thinking about topics, and fuller investment and interest.

As an art instructor I plan on taking my students to as many events and out-of-classroom trips as possible. Even if I merely take my class outside to interact with objects on school grounds, I feel that this is a powerful way to get students excited. For example, taking kids outside to collect branches, leaves, or other natural elements for them to create their own still life is much more exciting than handing out images.

Ideally, it would be wonderful to take students to art museums, exhibits and shows. If the funding were available to go on a field trip every week I would do it! The interaction with art in students' community allows them to make connections that they might not have been able to in the classroom. It broadens their understanding of how art can be used and applied in society, and gets them excited about how they can become involved.