Daphne D. Minkoff

Courses

• Spring 2024
• Summer 2024

Personal Statement

Teaching Philosophy The daily bombardment of processed images from the "golden arches" to network news forces me to question where an art education fits into the scheme of things. More importantly it stimulates me to ask what exactly the importance and purpose of art education is in this society. The nature of our community insures that the absorption of visual information is superficial and automatic; mechanically filtered and digested with little or no interaction between image and viewer. In contrast, art is a dialogue... Teaching art is a fundamentally provocative activity. It requires teaching students how to think critically for themselves so that they may begin to partake in this dialogue. The most important role of the teacher is that of mediator. A good mediator takes a macro view of the world around them. An awareness of traditions in art history, contemporary art, and art theory is crucial to a well-developed and thorough art education. My interest in all of these areas provides me with an ability to encourage students to broaden and investigate a range of ideas and engage in critical dialogue. Within art education students can gain exposure to an assortment of ideas from a myriad of sources. Consistent with this environment I view my role in the classroom not merely as offering knowledge or technical skills but rather as nurturer of creative activity and thought. Fundamentals can be taught by anyone, but I want to function as a catalyst, triggering responses which will challenge a student's way of thinking without imposing values. Producing beautiful aesthetic objects is not the objective. I feel that compelling students to persevere, although not always immediately gratifying, proves beneficial in the long run. It is not the individual project that makes an artist. Like all of academia, it is the thought process that is most important. Ultimately my role is to help each student realize their potential. Has a student explored new ideas within class? Has a student been influenced by the images and ideas of the classroom so that their art is given new relevance? These are measures of success. Success is attained in several ways: recognizing and understanding the limitations of students, focusing on strengths, and maintaining an elevated level of energy and activity in the classroom. Most importantly, a good teacher encourages discussion and thought in the work of students. In the end, an art education is not a matter of teaching and learning correct formulas, but preparing to ask astute questions and arrive at intelligent decisions. It is this will aid the student in their future endeavors.

Degrees & Certificates

MFA