Meeting 1.5 hours
Today, I met with Simona Zappas from the Walker Art Center and my instructor, Aki Shibata. This was the first time I was able to meet with Simona and I was happy to be able to put a face to her name. In our meeting we talked about
Some of my goals for this practicum and semester
My art process and art background as well as Simona’s background and professional practice
What the term “museum education” means
A brief history of how the museum has changed their way of programming
Some background information on how the WACTAC started
The meeting was between the three of us (Simona, Aki, and I), but the conversation was mostly between me and Simona. Aki explained that they were there to help facilitate the conversation and introduce us to each other but I also felt it was helpful being supported in this new experience. It was great to learn more about what I was getting myself into. Although we were only able to meet for about an hour, I feel that I was able to receive so much new information. After our meeting, Simona sent me some resources to learn about teen art programs and more specific information about the Walker Art Center Teen Arts Council.
When I think back to last semester in the Teaching Artist: Theory and Methods course, I am reminded of why I decided to continue with the practicum the following semester. I had my first experience teaching and writing lesson plans last semester but it was also the first time where I really thought about what education looks like and how art can be used as a tool when collaborating with other educators and students. I also learned about how the terms (educator, student, artist) intersect and how we can be all of those when we are in a learning environment. It is important that we are learning as we teach!
For next week, Simona suggested that I skim through the information she sent me and write down any questions or comments that I have.
Resources: