Abhi’s Teaching Philosophy 

Creating Brave Spaces that are Creative, Contemplative, and Caring.

 As an art teacher, the core of my teaching philosophy centers around nurturing a creative, contemplative, and caring environment where my students can explore their artistic abilities in a centered and grounded way, which would foster genuine change in their lives and the world around them. This philosophy is shaped by my years of experience in teaching mindfulness practices which are now incorporated into my art teaching journey. I do not want to just create a safe place but a brave place where students not only feel safe but are encouraged to engage in challenging and uncomfortable discussions resulting in artistic expressions related to art and its transformative power in the world, we live in. This is how it is reflected in various aspects of my teaching: 

Student Learning:

I believe that every child is innately creative and centered. Every child also has a unique creative outlook and artistic perspective that is waiting to be tapped into and nurtured. I encourage my students to dive deeper into their centered and creative selves by exploring, experimenting, and expressing themselves through art.

 Learning Environment:

As one of the foundational principles of my classroom environment is that every child is innately creative, and creating a conducive learning environment that is orderly, calm, and peaceful facilitates creativity. Empathy is also core to the learning environment that I nurture as it helps us understand each other’s needs and helps create a harmonious learning environment where creativity thrives which results in bringing more beauty in a world that is becoming more self-absorbed.

 Role of the Teacher, Curriculum, Technology, and Instruction:

As a teacher, my role is to be a facilitator and guide. I aim to create an inclusive space where all my students feel welcome, cared for, relaxed, and empowered as they explore their creative abilities. My instruction style ensures that every student’s creative expression is appreciated and I do not expect every student’s creative expression to look the same. Students are encouraged to use technology thoughtfully to connect with global artistic communities, access resources, and tour art museums virtually. Students are encouraged to take risks and explore new creative ideas using digital tools.

 School and Community:

Art transcends the walls of the classroom; it has the power to connect students to their community and the world around them and bring genuine change. Coming from a third-world country and being an immigrant, first-generation student, and a single parent, and having years of experience working with various non-profits, I understand the importance of education and community. My art classes collaborate with local artists, and cultural events in the community and take part in community service projects which instill a sense of social responsibility and empower students to make a positive difference in the world through their art.

“If enhancing creativity is to be an important goal of art, education projects must be designed to open out into unexpected possibilities.”-Olivia Gude