Your Inner Picasso: Why the Process Matters?



Last night I was reminded of how powerful the process truly is! As trained early childhood educator I have a deep interest in ensuring that students birth through adulthood understand that the process is what matters most. In the field, we often debate whether process or product is better. Some would say that the process is "meaningless play". Others, like myself, would say it is the "birth of genius". 

 Within everyone human being there lies a deep need for unstructured process-oriented activities or active play. Active play at every level of education is necessary for real learning to occur and helps learners maintain the "love of learning" that they lose from the demands of testing, school policies, and life stress. 

 On February 17, 2016, several Manor students, faculty, staff, and their friends and family engage in a very process oriented approach to art with the renowned, Jesse White. I could visibly see learning and "genius" happening in the room. Jesse is the Director of Pigeon Arts in Philadelphia, PA and is one of the best at her craft. 

 If you believe that you do not have the capacity to make art, think again. You just need someone like Jesse to help unlock the box where your "Inner Picasso" lies. She did this for me eight years ago, when I began painting with her. Since then I have created several acrylic and oil paintings that are very reflective of how I view the world. 

 For more information on Jesse check out the Pigeon Arts website: http://www.pigeon-arts.org/ and for her personal artwork: http://www.pigeon-arts.com/

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