Mollee J. Daniels

Artmaking is a versatile, communicative process that invites people of all cultures and backgrounds to develop an understanding of the world around them. Through the integration of Studio Habits of Mind, artful thinking routines, and social-emotional learning skills, my students use art as a tool for understanding alternative identities and perspectives. 

I foster the growth of critical thinking and problem-solving within the artistic process by using the Studio Habits as an anchor. My students stretch & explore through sketching, complete practice activities to develop craft, and complete projects to engage, take risks, make mistakes, persist through challenge, observe other artists, and reflect on their own processes. Through this practice, my students are responsible, independent decision-makers who experience artmaking in process, product, and self-expression. 

I integrate these ideas into my curriculum development by attaching my units to the diverse experiences of humanity and encouraging students to make connections to their own lived experiences. I believe making meaningful artwork starts with critically and creatively thinking about ourselves and the world around us. Through this approach, all of my students are encouraged, engaged individuals who use the artistic process as a tool for understanding and shaping the world.