Expression & Reflection

This response blog is related to expression and reflection. The author opens the chapter with a wonderful quote – “the strength of the drawing is going to depend very much on the evocative nature of the space.” It is commonly misconstrued that expression is only associated with art classes but in actuality, expression is used several aspects of everyday life. The way that Jim Woodside connects art and expression is by finding meaning in art. Jim’s students are encouraged to express emotional content in their figure drawings. Emotional content adds a touch like no other, because no one knows your emotions but you. The reflection process entails a little more than the expression – the author uses another fantastic quote – “when we’re talking looking at artwork, whether it’s one in the museum or your classmate’s, it’s still that slowing process; it’s still that trying to separate the difference between interpretation and description.” Reflection is about questioning, explaining, and evaluating why you chose the process. Some examples of how to help students develop the habit of Question and Answer are “how would this be you?”, “how’s it going to be you?”, and “what part of this character would be you looking in the mirror?” This just allows thought evoking processes for the students as they reflect. Do not try to control the process, just let it happen.