Teacher nurtures creativity, thinking skills in art classes

Apr 4, 2019

MATTAPOISETT — School art classes should allow artistic creativity, but also teach kids how to think more creatively and be more independent. 

That’s Greta Anderson’s philosophy for teaching art classes at Center School and Old Hammondtown School. 

“At [Old Hammondtown School] we've been adapting  a choice-based art program. The ultimate goal is to to provide art instruction through discovery and the sharing of ideas, rather than all working on step-by-step art lessons with a preconceived (by the teacher) outcome,” Anderson said. 

Since this is a new approach to art classes, Anderson added some structure to the program by using common themes, but allowing students room to interpret within those themes. 

"We started the year with a collaborative, bridge-design project to get the kids working together creatively. We looked at all types of bridges from all over the world,” and then kids depicted their own bridge designs. 

In one of the resulting works, a broad bridge spans a deep ocean, held up by a mermaid's hands, with a narwhal swimming underneath. “I really liked making bridges,” said fifth grader Sophie Bozzo. 

Students are also given the choice of a variety of materials. 

“We have five centers, based on art materials and skills, for them to choose from: drawing, painting, collage, fibers, and sculpture,” Anderson said. 

After the bridge challenge got the kids creating together, Anderson challenged them to be creative independently, leaving the themes purposefully broad to allow for interpretation.

"The themes for our class were 'Future' and 'Transformation.' We also got to design shoes — because everyone likes to do that," Bozzo said.    

Anderson organized a showcase of her student work so far, which was held at Center School on March 27, allowing parents and administrators to see student work.