Art Assessments & Art Standards - Pro's & Con's

I encountered students who are afraid to create.  This week was no exception.  Two second grade girls in different classes and at different schools were afraid to create.  They were to create a self-portrait, a picture that should represent themselves, not resemble themselves.  No pressure for photo-realism or likeness.  They were also to draw on their folder, the things and or places they enjoy.  They both were apprehensive and unwilling to take a chance and venture into the uncertain realm of creativity and imagination.

Fear strikes them and they freeze up.  Do I know the exact reason?  No.  Yet, the result is hesitation.  How can a first or second grader be so self conscience that they are inhibited-unable to put crayon to paper?  Perhaps personal problems, family difficulties, or ridicule from others curbs their enthusiasm and interest to create.  Whatever the reason, it is my opinion that art standards would not help them gain confidence in the arts.  Two polarized positions on art standards can be articulated.  Yes and no, affirmative and negative, pro and con.  I believe both to be the proper pursuit.  For some children, yes standards should be a part of the art education equation.  Yet, for others, standards will drive them away.  Let me first describe why I believe some children should not have standards as a requirement to create.  Later, in another blog entry, I will pursue the pro standards position.

I believe the act of creation is a deeply personal activity.  Especially when the creator is unsure and the imagery is less than expected.  What they create is who they are.  To criticize their work is to criticize them, who they are and their personal worth.  When you place standards upon their work, you are placing standards upon their person.  A value is placed upon their lives.  This is wrong.  Unlike a simple math problem, art is more than a simple equation, it's a construction of their consciousness, a personal perception placed on paper.  A number is certain, what is created is not concrete and less uncertain.  Placing art standards upon the uncertain act of creation will stifle the artist within and suck the creativity out of them.  Standards will furtherer alienation, cause resentment, and create barriers for those who are unsure of their skill and abilities.  Art is performance.  In young children this performance should be encouraged, nourished, and carefully cultivated and then, when confidence is achieved, standards can be introduced and required.