Art teachers are expected to have a background in art history as well as studio experience in many media.
Art teachers who offer private lessons in their homes or studios, or who teach in private schools, are generally not required by law to have any particular credentials or certifications. However, individual private schools set their own requirements, and art teachers who teach private lessons will likely want to have certain minimum qualifications to attract and retain students.
Background in Art History and Theory
Ideally, a private art teacher will have a bachelor's or master's degree in art, but if that is not the case, the teacher should at least have taken some courses in art history and theory. These courses could include survey courses of Western art and other art traditions, as well as courses in specific periods, such as Renaissance art or Impressionism. Art teachers should also have knowledge of color theory, architecture and the artistic development of children.
Proficiency in Studio Arts
In addition to a theoretical background in art, art teachers must be proficient in many artistic media and methods. Most bachelor's degree programs for art teachers require at least 30 hours of studio art courses, which can include drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking, ceramics, photography and digital media. Art teachers should be trained in the use of pencil, charcoal, watercolors, oils and acrylics. It is also helpful for art teachers to know something about graphic design.
Awards and Gallery Exposure
To attract and retain students, a private art teacher will want to have an extensive portfolio of work to show prospective clients. This portfolio should contain a variety of work. Any awards received or works featured in galleries or museums should be highlighted. The portfolio should also feature any illustrations the teacher may have created for books or magazines, as well as examples of graphic design, such as posters or menus.
Private School Teaching Credentials
While requirements for teaching art at private schools vary greatly, most private schools require at least a bachelor's degree in art, art education or education with an emphasis in art. Other college courses that may be helpful in getting a position teaching art in a private school are education methodology, philosophy of education, human development and classroom management. Elementary school art teachers, in private as well as public schools, are often expected to be able to merge the teaching of art with a variety of other subjects.
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