The holiday season, while filled with joy and excitement, often comes with its own set of stresses for educators. Between managing classrooms brimming with pre-vacation energy and the pressures of the season, the mid-year break is a much-needed respite for both teachers and students alike. We all find ourselves counting down the moments until that final bell rings, signaling the start of freedom, rest, and a chance to recharge. The desire to escape the classroom routine and embrace a more relaxed pace is palpable as summer break feels like a distant dream. But how can teachers maintain their passion and creativity in the meantime?
Many educators intend to use holiday breaks for grading and planning, but often find themselves drawn to more personally fulfilling activities. Exploring creative pursuits, whether through online tutorials, hands-on art projects, or simply allowing time for reflection, becomes essential. This period offers a valuable opportunity to reconnect with the artistic spirit that fuels so many teachers. It’s a time to nurture personal creativity, plan for the future, and simply be present in the moment, mirroring the very processes we encourage in our students. As we look ahead and wonder, “How Many More Days Until Summer?” let’s consider practical strategies to sustain our energy and inspiration throughout the school year. Here are five ways art teachers can creatively recharge during breaks and beyond, ensuring they remain vibrant and passionate educators until those cherished summer months arrive.
- Kickstart Creativity with a New Art Journal or Sketchbook
One of the most effective ways to reignite your artistic passion is by starting fresh with a new art journal or sketchbook. For many artists and art educators, receiving art supplies is a true joy. A gift card to an art supply store can be the perfect catalyst to select a brand-new sketchbook in anticipation of the break. The pristine, blank pages offer an irresistible invitation to create, just begging to be filled with watercolors, acrylics, charcoal, graphite, and perhaps even experiment with trending materials like Distress Inks. Embrace the tactile pleasure of new paper and let it inspire your artistic exploration.
- Enroll in an Online Art Workshop or Class to Learn New Skills
The digital age has opened up a wealth of opportunities for online learning, and art workshops are no exception. Many teachers are surprised to discover the sheer variety of online art classes available. Whether you’re interested in mastering watercolor techniques, exploring fluid acrylics, delving into paper arts, or experimenting with polymer clay, there’s an online workshop tailored to your interests. You can also find courses focused on artistic processes like collage, printmaking, abstract painting, and even concept-based workshops that explore themes like creative feminine energy or installation art. A simple online search for “online art workshops about [your interest]” will reveal a plethora of options. For budget-conscious educators, explore free resources like PAEA WebinARTs for valuable professional development content.
- Dedicate Time to Creative Goal-Setting for Artistic Growth
While it can be challenging to prioritize amidst busy schedules, setting aside dedicated time for creative goal-setting is incredibly beneficial for artistic productivity. Before the demands of the school year fully resume, allocate a weekend day or evening to reflect on upcoming artistic opportunities. Consider local art museums, galleries, or community events that might host exhibitions or shows. Planning ahead and setting goals, such as participating in a juried spring show or organizing a group exhibition with fellow artists, provides motivation and direction for your creative endeavors. The accountability of a group project, in particular, can be a powerful catalyst for pushing creative boundaries and producing meaningful artwork. Remember that inspiring quote often seen in classrooms: “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Take your own advice and actively pursue your artistic dreams.
- Integrate Regular Art-Making Time into Your Weekly Routine
Making time for personal art creation on a consistent basis can have a transformative impact. One art teacher found that after a period of recovery that allowed for dedicated studio time, continuing this practice even after returning to school proved invaluable. Even if it’s just for short intervals of 20 minutes scattered throughout the week, consistently engaging in art-making keeps creative juices flowing. Whether it’s painting, printmaking, watercolor work, or simply experimenting with different art markers, these small pockets of creative time can lead to significant artistic output over time, even filling sketchbooks and fostering a sense of ongoing artistic development.
- Cultivate and Engage with Your Art Community for Inspiration and Support
Connecting with fellow artists and art educators is not just enjoyable, but also a vital practice for creative professionals. Spending time with individuals who understand and appreciate the unique demands and rewards of art education is incredibly valuable. These connections provide energetic, spiritual, emotional, and practical support. Collaborations with friends and colleagues often serve as a major source of inspiration for personal artwork. Professional organizations and conferences, like PAEA, offer excellent opportunities to connect with your tribe. Beyond professional development and learning new techniques, these gatherings provide a space to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and “art-nerd out” together, fostering a sense of community and shared passion.
Jessica Alesso is a secondary art teacher in Erie, PA and the Region 2 Representative for PAEA. Jessica is also the co-chair for the 2020 PAEA conference committee.
In conclusion, while the question “how many more days until summer?” might linger in the minds of teachers and students alike, the period leading up to summer break doesn’t have to be just about counting down. By proactively incorporating these strategies for creative rejuvenation, art educators can maintain their enthusiasm, passion, and artistic drive throughout the school year. Embrace the opportunities for personal creative growth, connect with your art community, and continue to inspire the next generation of artists, making the journey until summer break just as enriching as the destination itself.
