1. Who Am I As An Artist? by Christina Ahia Trugillo Spring 2015 – ITE 329

2. Content List Who Am I as an Artist? – What Are My Strengths? Who Am I as an Art Educator? – What Are My Goals? How Will I Reach My Goals? Artifact 1 – Nature through Photography Artifact 2 – Crafts Artifact 3 - Maori Costume & Dance

3. What Are My Strengths? I have always been told that I have a “good eye” for things and can create a comfortable space whether it is in arranging my living space or creating a floral arrangement or color coordinating clothes. For me, something “looks” good when it “feels” good to me. I like to try new crafts and projects even if I know I do not have the skill to do something. Often times I struggle with having an artistic image in my mind but am not able to produce it. Yet, I persevere and find joy in the attempt. I value the process as much as the product. I realize that not all art is created purposefully, but that it is in the process of self-expression that a craft can be born and improved.

4. Who Am I as an Art Educator Integrate Arts across the Curriculum Inspire Creativity through Self-Expression Focus on the process not the product My Goals

5. How Will I Meet My Goals? Professional Development – I would participate in different workshops to learn new skills and techniques. I would offer students opportunities to integrate art into a variety of subjects. I would help my students draw connections to literature, such as in the story, The Dot, by Peter Reynolds. These connections will encourage children to find their own creativity. Art Therapy and Self-Expression – I would use scribble art, coloring outside lines and freestyle watercolor techniques to give students a chance to “color their feelings” and find art in their surroundings. Inspire Creativity – I will do my best to promote the performing arts into our curriculum as a means of learning about different cultures and traditions. I will emphasize the importance of learning through the process and feeling the sense of accomplishment in the final product.

6. Nature through Photography Kalo Anahola, Kaua’i Hanakapi’ai Falls Na Pali, Kaua’i Ko’olina Sunset Kapolei, O’ahu I love to capture moments like these through my photographs. It reminds me of the simplicity and perfection of the natural environment around me. I love these pictures as they depict birth, journey and accomplishment.

7. Crafts I chose to display these crafts because these are examples of how I attempted crafts without knowing exactly what my final creation was going to be. I simply tried to create the craft by going through the process. I hope to use these examples will serve as inspiration to students like me who do not draw or paint realistically, but create in an abstract manner. Top left: paracord bracelet top right: crocheted prayer shawl bottom left: recycled art bottom right: kaunaoa lei

8. Maori song, dance and craftwork I have a great appreciation for Hawaiian mele, ‘oli and hula. However, one of the greatest experiences I had in my adult life was participating in a Maori competition. For 6 months, my kumu hula and about 20 other dancers learned how to speak Maori, danced Maori, sang Maori and made every part of our costumes. We were immersed in New Zealand Maori culture and still have a connection to our Polynesian cousins through this experience.

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