An art teacher typically works in the school system teaching students how to paint, draw, create sculptures and ceramics, and learn photography. However, art teachers may also work privately or at art centres.
Art teachers educate their students about the creation of art, art history, as well as art theory. Most art teachers are practicing artists themselves who teach out of a passion for what they do and a desire to share it with their students.
Art teachers have to plan lessons and projects and make sure they have sufficient art supplies and tools for all their students. They work with a range of materials, which may include pencils, paints, dyes, paper, canvases, clay, and textiles. They may also use computers, especially when they are teaching digital art forms.
An art teacher will look at the basics when teaching students: how to create art using various mediums; the types of structures/functions involved; the choice and evaluation of the content; the relationship of art to different cultures and the past; the assessment of works of art; and the relationship between art and other disciplines. These areas are not typically taught separately, but will overlap and be taught in combination with each other.
An art teacher’s duties vary according to the level of their students. Elementary or middle school instruction is very basic versus the more advanced projects and guidance that high school art teachers get to share with their students.
Teaching art in art centres is usually geared specifically towards adults. It is an excellent alternative for art teachers who would prefer not to teach children, and who would rather specialize their courses instead of having to cover specific school curriculums.
Art teachers also have the opportunity to work with serious art students at the art professor level. The academic path allows art professors to teach courses only in their area of expertise and are part artist, part art critic, and can influence how future art trends develop.
Most art teachers teach students from grade one through to grade twelve in public or private schools, however, there are also art teachers that work privately, at art centres, or as professors.
While they typically work regular school hours, they are also expected to work additional hours to mark projects, prepare for lessons, attend staff meetings, and carry out administrative tasks. Art teachers are also expected to attend regular professional development courses, and often arrange exhibitions of student art work for a school or the local community.
A person working as an Art Teacher in Kenya typically earns around Ksh114,000 per month. Salaries range from Ksh52,600 (lowest) to Ksh182,000 (highest).
Teaching positions in pre, elementary, and secondary schools are expected to increase at an average rate in the future. However, demand will be greatest for teachers with expertise in science, math, and bilingual education.
Art teachers need to have a bachelor’s degree in teacher education with a specialty in fine arts. This type of program is offered in many accredited colleges and universities.
Classes include art, art history, design basics, developmental classes, computer classes, and basic teaching methodology classes. Individuals will be required to do observation hours and student teaching over the course of the degree. Upon successful completion of all requirements, one will have both a teaching degree and a teaching certificate.
