Arts-Integration in Action: Debunking the Myth of “Those Who Can’t Do, Teach.”

As I continue to develop my practice as an artist and teacher, there is a key component of my process that I have noticed and want to explore from a joyful perspective. The best teachers are the people who are really good at the skill they are teaching. There's a colloquialized pessimism that shrouds artists, musicians and performers “who are not working out in the big city”. They say if you can't do it, then teach. Well, I argue that it's those who can, teach- and do so with a high level of skill and passion. 

Depth of knowledge works in tandem with passion, driving one to better themselves in two planes: as an artist and teacher. To commit to continuing to grow as an artist with a focused practice, while simultaneously investing in that practice by teaching others, is a feat worth raising awareness of. The payoff of such is the nurturing of future generations whom we can inspire through imagination. Impactful Teaching Artists have the ability to illuminate students’ critical thinking skills, creativity, social-emotional intelligence, and joyful engagement in learning. It’s one thing to be naturally good at something and do it with excellence- but there’s an elevated nuance to being good at something, developing discipline in that gift, then exponentiating that gift by teaching others. 

The elements that go into the understanding of concepts within a particular artistic skill are usually not that complex. It is teaching of those concepts, in a concise and digestible way, that makes all the difference. To be able to connect with differing learning styles is a talent that is difficult to master. Those we teach may not choose to pursue an artistic practice in their futures, but they develop characteristics that are applicable to other areas of their lives. 

Teachers bear witness to significant improvements in students' ability to express ideas and emotions. I give thanks to the artists in my life who chose to teach and have inspired me. I give reverence to the future artists whose lives I have the pleasure to engage with through arts-integration in action.