Happy National Creativity Day!
National Creativity Day is coming up on May 30. To celebrate, we’d like to introduce you to one of our creative STEAM instructors, Becky Griffith.
How did you become interested in studying art?
I have always been interested in art, even at a young age. I can always recall a time when I was making something: coloring, sewing doll clothes, making sculptures out of anything I could find. In middle school, I was the only student to join art club. I felt freedom and support to explore my creativity through material and accessibility. I have held that passion to explore throughout my life and gained a better understanding of who I am and my own personal narrative.
What are some of the skills, knowledge and education needed for a career in art?
The biggest skills that are needed in an art career are the ability to dive into a project and the resilience to try again if your art does not come out the way you wanted. Technical skills can be mastered through making.
Why is it important for students to learn about art?
Art is an amazing form of communication. Developing the skills to be able to visually conceptualize their work in STEAM areas creates a foundation for better understanding.
What are some things you really enjoy about your role as a STEAM educator?
I love being able to root my lessons in other content areas, connecting science, technology, engineering, and math. Teaching art through this lens also enhances my own personal understanding of other content areas. I also love being able to share the messy projects with students, allowing for an authentic and playful way to explore.
As a STEAM educator, what are some ways you’ve been able to help students better connect with and explore their own imagination and creative abilities?
By incorporating and utilizing my knowledge and skills in art into my lessons, students can expand on their curiosity and learning. It is exciting to see the excitement when students can understand concepts while working with art materials they may not seek out on their own.
What advice would you give to students interested in studying and working in an art field?
Do it! Make art and share your art. There is an amazing community waiting to support your creativity.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I spend time with my family, friends, and my cat! I participate in my own artistic practices, go to antique and thrift stores, and watch scary movies.
National Creativity Day, a day set aside to raise awareness about the importance of creativity and innovation while problem solving, is celebrated each year on May 30. Why do you feel it’s important to emphasize creativity and innovation in problem solving? How do you incorporate this into your work with students and teachers?
It’s important to celebrate creativity because sometimes people forget to foster their own creativity. I feel that when we engage in creative and hands-on activities, we not only increase our happiness, but can solidify problem-solving skills, resilience and an inquisitive mind.
