Nikki Lewis
Teaching Philosophy
As an instructor it is my responsibility to consider each student as individually as possible and to foster creativity while teaching a strong foundation in ceramics and design. I believe it is important to give a student every opportunity to be inspired and to learn in the classroom, studio, and fine art venues. I approach teaching in a hands-on fashion. I try to problem solve with each student focusing on their specific needs. My students have diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives and passions that I try to draw out of them into finished product. Gaining trust from my students to help them become creatively confident in their art making is intrinsic to my teaching process.
I demonstrate frequently. Since ceramics requires a high level of technical skill, it is imperative to set a strong foundation of practical knowledge. Giving students these skills in clay, I hope to remove roadblocks in their creative process. Using slides and power point lectures on contemporary and historical art works, distributing handouts, and taking students on gallery/museum trips are the methods I use to teach the intellectual process and fundamentals of studio ceramics. I bring in objects relevant to studio projects from my collection so students can handle and observe work from various artists. Critiquing formally and informally gives students a platform to voice their personal narratives and gain insight from their peers. Critiquing with students can be excellent for problem solving and a celebration of their accomplishments in class.
I also maintain a viable art career and robust studio practice, which sets an example for my students who want to become professional artists. I believe it is a privilege to be able to teach and I try to inspire hard work, critical thinking, and an appreciation for exceptional design and craftsmanship.