Teacher Artistic Behaviors (TAB)

Art at DGS is different than in years past as we have embraced a T.A.B. philosophy. T.A.B., or Teaching Artistic Behaviors, is a way of running an art room that allows students to take charge of what they create. Students are given opportunities to experiment with a very wide array of art materials and techniques and work in a way that fits their own personal interests. Instead of similar projects that every student works on simultaneously (cookie-cutter projects) students are shown new techniques, ideas, and materials regularly and then they are allowed to express their creativity and artistic abilities at their individual levels. Construction of 3 dimensional projects from various materials, group paintings, and multimedia experimentation are happening all at the same time. The classroom is set up with “Stations” (centers) with specific materials at each station. At this point in time we have drawing, painting, and collage stations where students gather materials that fit their ideas. This builds self reliance and helps them learn how to make choices that will affect the outcome of their artwork. Using materials from multiple stations is not only acceptable, it is encouraged. Sometimes we make good choices and sometimes choices that require us to make adjustments, but that is how we learn. Other stations that will be opening up throughout the year will include clay and weaving. There are many other options for stations that we might try in the future that can include construction materials, wire, legos, and even digital photography/video.