Kelly Kanemaru

My background in art is in mostly digital media and animation, however I have experience in drawing and oil painting.  As an educator, my philosophical approach is from an essentialism point of view.  I believe it is important to know the basics of color, design, and composition in order to successfully express one's ideas and creativity.  I want to provide an open environment where students will feel comfortable exploring their creative sides and expressing themselves.  My ideal classroom would have computer stations for each student with the latest software and a space to work off the computer for design/animation classes.  Otherwise for 2D art classes I would want open tables for students to work on with a demo station at the front of the classroom.

Once students have mastered the basics, I will encourage them to explore their lives and communities.  Art is a communal form of expression, drawing influences from the past and the present.  Students will learn about the masters of the past, however I would introduce them to other artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Frida Kahlo, and street artists like Banksy and John Fekner.  I want students to draw inspiration from their physical, mental, and emotional environments and be able to express themselves in the medium of their choice, whether it be through an oil painting of a still-life or an environmental installation.  The possibilities, like water, can take any shape of it's container and any form.