Questions for Creators

In this blog post, we'll discuss questioning strategies when supporting young artists before, during, and after their experience in the creative process of developing their own work.

Questioning strategies can help elementary teachers and students navigate the world of art, whether they are consumers and observers or creators. Art, in all its forms, provides a wonderful platform for elementary students to explore ideas, appreciate the world around them, and develop critical thinking skills. 

Questioning Strategies for the Creative Process

For elementary teachers, guiding students with thoughtful questions during the creative process can be a rewarding endeavor. 

Before Starting the Creative Process

For elementary students beginning their creative journey, teachers can guide them by asking foundational questions:

• Medium and Scale: What size do you want to create? How might your choices affect your final artwork?
• Influences and Materials: Are there artists or ideas that inspire you? What materials will you use, and why?
• Timing: How long do you think it will take to complete your work, and how will you know when it's finished? 
• Intention: What emotions or messages do you want your artwork to convey?
• Presentation: How do you plan to share your work with others, whether in the classroom, at an exhibition, or through other means?

During the Creative Process

While students are actively engaged in creating art, it's helpful for them to reflect on their progress by asking questions related to their chosen art form:

• Alignment with Intent: Are your choices aligning with what you initially wanted to express? For example, in a painting, do your choices related to color, composition, and subject matter align with your intent?
• Consistency and Clarity: Are there any inconsistencies in your work? How can you make your artwork clearer and more communicative to your audience?
• Engagement and Storytelling: Does your artwork have a clear beginning, middle, and end? Is the story or message you want to convey clear to your viewers?

After Completing the Creative Process

Once students have completed their artwork, teachers can guide them through self-reflection and future planning:

• Celebrate: Identify and explain what you consider the best part of your artwork.
• Areas for Improvement: Consider what aspects of your work might benefit from further attention and practice.
• Mentorship and Vision: Think about finding a mentor, either a teacher or another artist, to help you develop your artistic skills. What would you like to explore or create next?

Art provides a wonderful opportunity for elementary students to express themselves and appreciate the world around them. By engaging with these questioning strategies, teachers can help students navigate the art critique process, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of their artistic voice. 

Be sure to check out our other blogs with  Questions for Consumers and Coaching Students in the Creative Process.