Why should you teach art classes?

Hello friends, and welcome back to my blog. I have been crazy busy, getting ready for an exciting summer, painting any chance l get.

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In this blog l want to talk to you about why you should start teaching your own art classes, and the benefits.  I have taught many painting classes in varies locations in the Kingston area and l now presently teach acrylic painting workshops at the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning, located 370 King St W, Kingston, ON . Teaching artist workshops can positively impact you artistically in a variety of ways. Not only is it a way to earn extra income, but also to increase your creative productivity and publicize your art. Although location and overhead could be an issue, l do believe there are many options, such as a home studio if you have the space, or there are many perfect settings and spaces for teaching classes and workshops in many communities at a very affordable prices.
Although an obvious benefit of hosting workshops or classes is extra income, money isn’t the only reason for holding them. However for some artists not even the primary one, like me. For example it keeps me stimulated creatively, helps with my artist block, it can result in new ideas and inspirations for future work, and it’s the benefit of being around new people. You are made to paint regardless if you feel like it or not, and this means you are practicing along with your students.
 
Increasing your overall exposure and profile in the arts community will likely also result from conducting workshops and classes.  You will be able to add participant’s names to your email list for other workshops, shows, and new artwork you have created. Those who enjoy your workshop experiences, tend to return to learn more and can often bring friends or family who might be interested in your art or in attending your classes as well.

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Another advantage of workshops or classes as opposed to a formal course of study is that you can make them less structured and more fun and social. Although my classes can be a bit more structured than others, l still try to encourage students to add their own ideas and creative spin into their work. Attendees will still learn lots, l know they do in my classes, but they will be able to do so in a relaxed and casual setting. Especially in an inspiring space like Open Studios Kingston. So if you are thinking about conducting a workshop for the first time, make it fun, it’s a great advantage to attracting participants. A huge advantage to hosting these workshops and classes is that participants are able to receive plenty of individual attention and support. Beginners and amateurs appreciate positive hands on approach, this helps with self-esteem and personal growth, and other artists appreciate it for professional and technical reasons, especially when it comes to understanding the important points.
 
I believe it is an advantage when each student completes and leaves with a finished work of art. It gives them a feeling of mastery and accomplishment. Although everyone works at a different pace and not everyone will finish their painting, as long as the student understands and masters the techniques, they can finish it on their own time.  Students not only have learned something new, but they also have something to show for it. I think it is most important to teach techniques and knowledge that can be applied when practicing at home. Offering workshops that aren’t going to cost your students a fortune, and financially be able to purchase similar supplies, is appealing, and attendees are more apt to try the same medium,  and classes again.
 
Lastly workshops are a great way to gain teaching experience and improve your overall ability to talk about your art in public. Teaching workshops and making art in public brings you closer to people and brings people closer to art. This is a great way to advertise your art as well as for future workshops, classes and shows.  Intimidation and reluctance that many people have around trying something new, like painting usually diminishes once they actually see how it’s created and able to try it firsthand. It’s a win, win for the students and myself, we all benefit, the gratifying feeling of helping someone accomplish something that makes them feel great is priceless. It is truly rewarding to be able to help people feel good about themselves, and it is fun to meet new and amazing people.
 
If you or anyone you know are interested in teaching and you may have questions, please feel free to contact me and l can try my best to help and point you in the right direction.
 
Until next time my friends. Have a Beautiful day.
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Alice