I am back “in school” in more ways than one this September. I am still working the “day job” full time teaching art at Harwich Middle School and continuing to study for my master’s degree through SCAD’s e-learning program. In fact, most of my degree will be done online throught distance learning but the painting program is unique in that it is the only one with a limited residency component. That is how I came to spend the time in Savannah during the summer quarter this year.
While I was there, I was introduced to the work of Andy Goldsworthy, a fascinating artist who works in nature. Many of his books are in the local library network or check out the DVD Rivers and Tides to see the actual process– it’s amazing and inspired me to try something based on it with my 7th graders and their science teacher. Here’s a link to get you started. Google him and check out some of the other sites.
http://www.goldsworthy.cc.gla.ac.uk/
A Goldsworthy Sculpture
So now I am taking Contemporary Art History and just finished my second week’s unit of study and took the first quiz. Learning online is different and potentially difficult if you aren’t very disciplined and organize your time.
Each week I have content to read online (sort of like going to the prof’s lecture in reality) and readings from the text book. (It’s Strategies of Being, 2nd edition by Jonathan Fineberg for those who might be interested.) Each week I must post responses to the prof’s topic by Thurs. night at midnight, also replying to some other classmates posts as well. This takes the place of discussing in class….but it isn’t at all like just naturally talking and followng a discussion when you’re all together in one room at one real time. It’s the part I find most cumbersome and dislike so far.
I have assessments or submissions of some sort which are due by Sun. night by midnight EDT and then the next Unit of the 10 weeks begins the following Mon-Sun.
I have developed a routine of when to post and submit and do my readings which is working pretty well in rhythm with my daily work schedule and when I have the best energy and attention to put into my work. The workload looks like it’s going to get a little more demanding as we move toward the mid term but so far, so good. And the information is interesting and informative.
All this doesn’t leave much time for my own work in the studio – or putting together the most scintillating blogs! But I will be participating in Fall for the Arts next weekend: Sat 10/4 and Sun 10/5 from noon to 4PM, I’ll be working in my studio at 50 Pearl St. Hyannis. Stop by for “Coffee and Conversation” with the artists. Or drop in after 5PM on Sat. evening for Artscape. This gallery walk that gets you 20% off dinner at participating Main St. restaurants, is usually the first Thursday of the month but they moved it to coincide with FFTA.
And busy I am, I did make a point to go to Cape Cod Community College’s current show at the Higgins Gallery. Get over to see “Calcutated Color”, curated by Jane Lincoln if you like color, abstract, minimalist or geometric art. This show is “all that”.
