Art Lessons and the Power of Technology

Over the past four years, I have had the honor of teaching this wonderful student (pictured). When she told me she was moving across the country, I was disappointed because she is a true creative who embraces each project and does so with innovation and experimentation. I sure was going to miss sharing her experiences, and I told her mom “there’s always Skype”.

Fast forward to six months ago or so, and her mom reached out asking if we could, in fact, Skype lessons. After settling into her new home and trying an art class nearby, she was ready to try our virtual lessons. Each week she joins our class and our class embraces her and the process. She has her art materials set up and we position her, ahem the computer, at the table alongside the class. We have a pretty stellar group of kids that make this experience fun.

Recently I asked her mom if she would share what’s working and what could work better. This is what she had to say:

“I knew the first time we met that I wanted Sofia to join your class. I wholeheartedly believe in your philosophy to let the child discover their path. You provide them materials and instruction, but let them use their voice and be in complete control of their work. Your approach is inspiring!

The Skype lessons have been incredible for Sofia on many levels. She gets to see her favorite art teacher every week even though we live 3000 miles away, she doesn’t have to leave her house to attend class (this is very valuable when it’s raining or snowing!) she is exposed to a unique program (not available where we live) where she explores different mediums and learns about different artists, she can choose to work more on a project later in the week if she likes - because she is doing the work from home, she benefits from seeing group work but isn’t distracted by a group experience and we love that no matter what else is going on, this Skype class fills our home with creativity and self expression every week.

Where could you improve? I’ll have to ask Sofia as I can’t think of anything....Oh...Sofia is sometimes jealous of your snacks. Lol.”

When I received this message, I was flooded with emotion. I am so grateful for their support and eagerness to continue to be a part of the studio. She—along with everyone—sure knows how to set the bar high! It was also a strong reminder for me to continue to strive to keep the studio fresh—through content, curriculum, and technology (even if it is my frenemy).