Visual Arts Educator
reignite your creativity
EMBARK ON A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY as we delve into the profound role of the arts. Learn to sculpt a visionary classroom where art, teaching, and community converge in an inspiring dance of creativity, passionately shared and nurtured. Celebrate the intricacy of the creative process, envision our ideal teaching scenario that nurtures individual expression, explore effective studio management techniques, and foster a vibrant community of sharing — all in a setting that inspires boundless artistic growth and collaboration. Be prepared to make art every day. Materials will be provided.
Monday
Modeling the Creative Process
Register, get set up in your dorm room, meet the cohort, and explore how to effectively model and convey the significance of the creative process. Then, head to a cocktail hour and gourmet dinner at Pomfret's dining hall.
Tuesday
Fostering an Inclusive and Creative Space
How can we underscore the importance of creating a space that is consistently inclusive, collaborative, and creative, placing a high priority on safety and respect for everyone, while also actively nurturing individuals' creative explorations?
Wednesday
Inspiring Growth and Showcasing Achievements
How can we design prompts and assignments that most effectively inspire growth in our students, and what is the optimal way to recognize and showcase their artistic achievements?
Thursday
Putting Insights into Action
Apply the insights gained over the last three days to experiment, devise an engaging assignment, and structure your Moving Forward plans. Let your newfound knowledge shape your creative journey.
Friday
Showcasing and Sharing Ideas
Showcase the assignments you've crafted and participate in a positive and supportive dialogue.
Meet Your Facilitator
Jean-Paul "JP" Jacquet
JP, a graduate of Syracuse University's VPA program, is the artist-in-residence at Pomfret School. His artistic journey took him through Europe, New York City, and Providence before he found a home at Pomfret. What was initially a three-year plan turned into a twenty-four-year commitment. JP's philosophy revolves around the belief that everyone is a creative being. He advocates for fun and exploration in the creative process, particularly at the high school level. His studio — a testament to his principles — is muralized with portraits of past students and is always open. JP actively participates in every project alongside his students, and he believes in demystifying the artistic process while showcasing the beauty of errors and revisions. JP extends his passion beyond Pomfret School as the Co-Founder of L'Atelier au Chateau, an immersive art and language program for teens in rural France. This venture reflects his commitment to providing unique opportunities for young artists to explore and grow. His twenty-four-year journey at Pomfret School, coupled with initiatives like L'Atelier au Chateau and a steady flow of commissions and personal work, underscores his dedication to shaping the next generation of artists. His teachings and collaborative spirit ensure that creativity is not just a skill to be taught but a vibrant and evolving journey to be experienced.