With choice-based artwork, learners don't have to worry about their projects being perfect, and can focus on trying new things, taking risks, and finding new techniques that may spark their interests.
Rather than doing the same projects, learners have an opportunity to go to specific stations where they can decide what to work on. These stations include drawing, painting, collage, printmaking, fiber arts, digital art, stop-motion animation, sculpture, and even clay. Students may go from station to station to work on their art until it is completed.
I start every class period with a 5-10 minute demonstration of a new technique, medium, or style of art. The students may work with me, follow along, or simply observe. After this, They may go work at the station of their choice. They may be inspired to try what I have displayed, or choose to do what they wanted to in the first place. Regardless, they walk away with new knowledge they can use later. Each station also has a binder full of ideas, examples, and techniques that can inspire students that are experiencing artist's block, so everyone can keep on creating!
