Being both an artist and educator can feel natural, but connecting the two roles meaningfully isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, educators feel they must leave their artist identities behind when they enter the classroom. Nevertheless, their artistic practice remains a vital part of their identity and enriches the education they provide.
The Art of the Educator celebrates the artistic talents of public school teachers in New York City and highlights how their artwork reflects the excellence they bring to their students every day. To present this exhibition, MoMA’s Young Learners team has proudly collaborated with the New York City Art Teachers Association/United Federation of Teachers, which supports art educators and advocates for quality art programs. By hosting events to showcase student and educator work and recognize artist-teachers, NYCATA/UFT promotes the importance of art education for all students.
Organized by David Rios, Director, Young Learners, and Larissa Raphael, Manager, School and Teacher Programs, The Museum of Modern Art, in collaboration with NYCATA/UFT board members Jackie Cruz, Albert Justiniano, and Lisa Kaplan with contributions from selection panelist Jacob Rhodes.
Through Young Learners initiatives like Teacher Programs, The Museum of Modern Art is committed to providing NYC Public School teachers with opportunities and experiences that support their professional and personal development.
For more about Teachers Programs, please visit moma.org/teaching/.