OVERVIEW
Art was a method of communication, even before we could read or write, however, teaching it requires more than just knowledge of art and the transfer of certain skills. It calls for passion, creative thinking, and the ability to inspire others. Creative arts can be seen as a gift that helps us better understand life, while it brings joy.
More so than adults, young children are spontaneous and in touch with their creative side, creating joy without being critical of their own work. Ms Marais, or “Mamsie” as she is fondly referred to, tries to ensure that nothing limits that innate creativity and that children don’t compare themselves, and their masterpieces, to those of others, as it inhibits the free flow of ideas and the nurturing of our primal artistic instincts.
The creative arts process differs drastically from the strict class situation where they must do everything according to the book. Just like math, however, art is critically important for children's mental development and the ability to problem-solve.
In addition, the senses and emotions are equally important, especially in visual arts. Children are encouraged to create what they see or feel, not what they are prescribed to observe. Our unique environment at Woodridge also allows us to draw inspiration from beyond the four walls of the classroom. Nature is a wonderful medium to open doors to creative thinking and unstructured learning in a healthy environment.
