At Prometheus School, we believe that art is an essential part of a child’s education. Art education helps children to develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, while also promoting social and emotional development. That’s why we have a dedicated Visual Arts Studio for the Primary Years Programs (PYP), where we use the Atelier Approach to foster artistic expression and learning.
What is the Atelier Approach?
The Atelier Approach is a teaching method that was developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy. The approach is based on the idea that children learn best through hands-on experiences and experimentation. In the Visual Arts Studio at Prometheus School, we use the Atelier Approach to encourage children in PYP, which include programs for mom and me, for ages 1.5 to 2.5 years, to explore a variety of materials, techniques, and ideas in a supportive and collaborative environment.
In the Visual Arts Studio at Prometheus School, children in PYP work in small groups, where they can share ideas, experiment with materials, and explore their creativity. The studio is designed to be a safe and inspiring space where children can express themselves freely and learn through their art-making experiences.
Key Elements of the Atelier Approach
Here are some key elements of the Atelier Approach that we use in the Visual Arts Studio for PYP:
Hands-on Learning:
The Atelier Approach emphasizes hands-on learning and experimentation. Children are encouraged to explore materials and techniques through their own experiences and ideas.
Collaboration:
The Visual Arts Studio at Prometheus School is designed to encourage collaboration among children. Children in PYP work in small groups, where they can share ideas, provide feedback, and learn from each other’s experiences.
Reflection:
The Atelier Approach encourages children to reflect on their art-making experiences. Children in PYP are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings about their work, and to reflect on how their art-making experiences have influenced their understanding of the world around them.
Individual Expression:
The Atelier Approach values individual expression and creativity. Children in PYP are encouraged to express themselves through their art-making experiences, and to develop their own unique styles and techniques.
Use of Multiple Materials:
The Atelier Approach emphasizes the use of multiple materials and techniques. Children in PYP are encouraged to experiment with a variety of materials, including paint, clay, fabric, and found objects.
Benefits of the Atelier Approach in the Visual Arts Studio for Primary Years Programme
The Atelier Approach in the Visual Arts Studio for PYP has a number of benefits. Here are just a few:
Fosters Creativity:
The Atelier Approach encourages children in PYP to explore their creativity and express themselves through their art-making experiences. This can help to foster a lifelong love of the arts.
Promotes Collaboration:
The Visual Arts Studio at Prometheus School is designed to encourage collaboration among children in PYP. This can help to build social skills and promote teamwork.
Develops Critical Thinking Skills:
The Atelier Approach encourages children in PYP to think critically and problem-solve through their art-making experiences.
Supports Emotional Development:
The Visual Arts Studio at Prometheus School is designed to be a safe and inspiring space where children in PYP can express themselves freely. This can help to support emotional development.
The Visual Arts Studio at Prometheus School for PYP employs the Atelier Approach, which is highly regarded by Best IB schools in India and globally. This approach provides an ideal environment for nurturing artistic expression and learning through hands-on activities, teamwork, self-reflection, personal expression, and the use of a variety of materials. It supports the development of critical thinking skills, social and emotional growth, and creativity in young children. Ultimately, the Atelier Approach lays a solid foundation for lifelong learning and appreciation of the arts.