SPECIAL
I hope that your summer has brought you moments of reflection, balance, inspiration, and renewal. While we turn towards our last few days before schools reopen, my wish for you is that you find time to complete those last few summertime goals, and then begin to cultivate the excitement and energy that it takes to provide your students with the most magical year ever.
At my school, I am part of a group of extraordinary educators who are affectionately called the
Specials
. It also defines us as
specialists
who have trained extensively and are maintaining an expertise in our subject matter. How fortunate we are to be the
special
teachers that create classroom atmospheres of supportive risk taking, exploration and inquiry, discovery and innovation, comfortable challenges, and positivity (quite regularly becoming the highlight of the day for many students).
Art educators do create a
special
space — place-making and providing opportunities for students to learn about themselves and cultivate a voice. It is a space where students explore the beauty of the global world and the challenges that need to be addressed. It is a space where students find meaning in mark making, create connections, and grow in individual expression and technique. Remember that you are the
special
part of a learner’s day. We have a great responsibility living up to that label.
FAEA’s Professional Development Committee, led by President-Elect, Dr. Jackie Henson-Dacey, have prepared a very
special
annual conference. I encourage you to ask administrative leaders as early as possible for support to attend. Maintaining our expertise as
specialists
involves continually learning about best practices in art education. Mark your calendars for the
66th Annual FAEA Professional Development Conference
in beautiful St. Petersburg. Art educators from throughout the state will gather to celebrate, learn, make, and experience
Vintage Vogue: Time to Shine!
You can learn more about registering for conference
here.
As we begin to shift back into our
specialized
fall roles, please take a moment to consider entering your artwork into the
2018 FAEA Member Virtual Exhibition
. The Member Virtual Exhibition was designed to provide a special opportunity for FAEA members to participate in a statewide, juried competition. FAEA proudly presents this exhibition to foster and encourage members to celebrate their artistic talents. All jurors are professionals in the visual arts field with expertise in the evaluation of artwork for exhibition. FAEA is currently accepting submissions through September 4, 2018. Don’t miss this great opportunity to showcase your professional artistic practice. Find out more information
here.
Lark Keeler
FAEA President
