Wonder Art
About Me
My name is Heather Diviness, a passionate K-12 art educator who hopes to lead and teach with a love for creativity at the center of my art classroom. I am a graduate of the esteemed University of Northern Colorado, where I honed my skills and passion for art education. With a specialization in printmaking, I have not only mastered the technical intricacies of this unique medium but have also embraced its expressive potential. With its rich history and diverse techniques, printmaking serves as a cornerstone of my artistic journey. I am actively involved in the broader art community, collaborating with fellow educators, attending conferences, and staying on top of the latest developments in art education. This commitment to professional growth enriches my teaching methods and ensures that I remain a source of inspiration for my students. I'm a proud native Coloradan with a passion for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of my home state through hiking and camping. Nature's wonders never cease to amaze me, and I find solace in the quiet of the mountains. When I'm not traversing the trails, you'll likely find me in the kitchen, fueled by my love for baking and experimenting with new recipes. Beyond the kitchen and the great outdoors, I am actively engaged in my church and community. Being a part of something larger than myself is fulfilling, and I cherish the connections and shared values that come with community involvement. Life is an exciting journey, and I find fulfillment in the simple pleasures, whether it's a beautiful sunset, a good book, or the warmth of friends and family.
Join me on a journey of artistic exploration and discovery. Through my passion for creativity and dedication to empowering young minds, I continue to shape the next generation of artists, instilling a lifelong love for creativity and self-expression. Welcome to a world where art education becomes a transformative experience centered around wonder!
Statement of Philosophy
As a K-12 art educator, the importance of nurturing creativity in young minds is essential. I believe in creating an inclusive and inspiring environment where students can explore their artistic voices and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts. In my classroom, students are encouraged to experiment, take risks, and find their unique artistic identities. This statement encapsulates my philosophy as an art educator, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, empathy, confidence-building, and collaboration in nurturing students' artistic growth and development.
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Inclusive Environment: At the core of my teaching philosophy is the belief in creating an inclusive environment. Through Teaching Artistic Behavior (TAB), I aim to foster collaboration and inspiration, ensuring every student feels valued and included.
Recognition of Diversity: Central to this philosophy is the acknowledgment that disability and diversity are unique to each individual. Therefore, I prioritize providing multiple tools and approaches to cater to diverse needs effectively.
Empathy and Understanding: I believe in cultivating empathy and understanding in the classroom. By being empathetic towards students' challenges and providing unwavering support, I aim to foster a sense of acceptance and belonging.
Confidence Building: Building confidence is fundamental. Reassuring students in their artistic abilities and creating a secure environment for self-expression are essential aspects of my approach.
Promotion of Self-Confidence and Reflection: I emphasize the importance of self-confidence and self-reflection. By encouraging intrinsic motivation and artistic thinking, I aim to empower students in their creative endeavors.
Focus on Learning and Exploration: Learning and experimentation are prioritized over outcomes. Valuing the lessons learned throughout the creative process, I aim to instill a love for learning and exploration in my students.
Assessment Based on Artistic Behaviors: Assessing students based on artistic behaviors rather than final products is crucial. This approach allows for holistic skill development and a deeper understanding of artistic processes.
Inspiration from Diversity: Exposure to various art forms and cultures is integral to inspiring creativity and broadening perspectives. By embracing diversity in art, I aim to nurture a deeper understanding of its impact on the world.
Collaborative Learning Environment: Collaboration is encouraged as a means of learning from one another and collective problem-solving. Through group discussions and critiques, students learn to appreciate the diverse perspectives and talents within the classroom.
