Are We Having Fun Yet?

"FUN" is a subjective term, I suppose. Many students tell me that art is their favorite class and that they are having FUN. Others, however, are not used to the expectations of a high school art class, never mind an honors level Maggie Walker art class.... and "fun" may not be the first adjective that comes to mind... BUT I THINK:

Fun is thinking differently than you do in other classes.
Fun is exploring art materials like pencil, ink, clay, paint, and mixed media.
Fun is looking at art up close and personal at local art galleries and museums.
Fun is working in your sketchbook.
Fun is a focused and thoughtful mind (and one that can imagine and brainstorm).
Fun is being curious.
Fun is taking risks (even when it means failure).
Fun is growing from those risks in a way that you wouldn't otherwise grow.
Fun is exploring art history.
Fun is making connections between art and your other classes.
Fun is learning a whole new language -  a "visual language."
​Fun is gaining the confidence to do things you never thought that you could do.
Fun is challenging yourself to solve visual problems unlike anyone else would.
Fun is working in a room that buzzes with energy, bright colors, and student ideas.
Fun is making art.

If all that sounds like FUN then YES, we are having it! If it sounds like WORK then YES, it is. Learning anything takes work and art is no exception. Remember, there's a reason why what we make is called "artwork." It's definitely not easy and it takes a great deal of time, work, and practice to make it. Why can't work also be fun?

If your student is still wrestling with all that high school has plopped on their plate, then give it time. The fun will come when the dust settles and the confidence builds. 

Feel free to roam the hallways to see the FUN we've been having!