The main concern of this article is to introduce the concept of the authentic gesture as a vital, largely self-determined expression of the child and to make it fruitful for art education. Because of the assumed educational importance of the concept, some hints to other learning areas will also be given. This should be done from a historical and…

The individual uniqueness of every student forms the foundation for expressive activities. Our number one priority as art teachers is to assist our students in identifying their creative expressive potential. (Author/SJL)

Theories and techniques for fostering creativity are described because all students, regardless of intelligence or talent, have artistic ability that should be developed. Four basic visual viewpoints have been identified: the expressive colorist, the hands-on formist, the neat observant designer, and the pattern-oriented draftsperson. These visual…

Finger painting is often regarded as the epitome of free expression for children. However, a careful review of the history of Ruth Shaw's finger-painting system reveals that it was dominated by specific techniques and stylistic conventions taught without a critical understanding of art history or appreciation. (IS)

This report reviews five current research projects in aesthetic education. Chapter 2 describes recent studies at the Institute of Personality Assessment and Research (IPAR) which relate aesthetics and creativity. Chapter 3 reviews measures of perceptual and cognitive performance; perceptual and aesthetic preference; and aesthetic interests,…

Argues that student creative writing is stimulated by painting and other visual art. Describes a seven-step process in which students view painting and other visual arts and then write poetry. Includes suggested artworks and excerpts of poetry written by students. (CFR)

The report summarizes discussion and recommendations of five seminars on promoting the arts in education. The seminars were sponsored by the Arts Advocacy Project, a joint venture of the Music Educators National Conference, National Art Education Association, National Dance Association, and American Theatre Association. The seminars examined how…

This curriculum guide for grades K-12 is designed to help art teachers, classroom teachers, art consultants, and administrators develop and maintain art programs. The guide has four main parts, the first part containing an introduction and forward. Part two includes the rationale, the focus, and the components of an art education curriculum. Also…