Getting into the zone

Project (M.A., Education (Curriculum and Instruction) -- California State University, Sacramento, 2010.This Project is an Alternative Culminating Experience for a Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction with an Elective Emphasis on Arts in Education. It follows Pathway I: Artist as Educator.\ud This project examines the questions, "What causes artist???s block????, ???How do artist???s break through blocks????, and ???What are the necessary conditions for facilitation of free-flowing creativity???? The artist studied and scrutinized her personal life looking for the answers to these questions. She documented her journey by means of narrative research methods, journal writings, and photography. In addition, she carefully observed her behaviors while in the process of creating paintings, reading appropriate literature, attending a painting workshop, discussing blocks with other artists, and practicing self-help regimens designed to break through obstructions.\ud It was the aim of the researcher to discover methods that could be used to lessen the frustration of blockages and promote fearless creativity. Students need to\ud v\ud experience multiple successes and, with the acquisition of effective tools, they will be better equipped to repeat their achievements both personally and professionally.\ud Finding deep satisfaction promotes self-esteem, involvement, and community. Art making can cause students to challenge their thinking abilities to achieve positive outcomes that help them feel good about themselves. Many students depend upon their teachers to open their minds with meaningful and positive experiences and give them opportunities to take risks and learn about themselves.Education (Curriculum and Instruction