K12ArtChat the Podcast

Restorative Practices help art educators give students the confidence needed to experiment, take creative risks, and grow as artists! Returning guest Alicia Gray joins Matt and Laura to talk about her contribution to Restorative Practices in Education Through the Arts. Specifically, how these practices allow art educators to move beyond traditional art room strategies, the healing potential of the artmaking process, and building a resilient community where students can feel supported!

What does reflective practice look like in a contemporary art classroom? In #K12ArtChat EP 271, The Creativity Department welcomes back art educator and author Richard Kim to discuss his philosophy on contemporary art education. Drawing on his new book, Art Education Manifesto, and Davis Publications’ professional development course, Curricular Considerations in Contemporary Art Education, Richard shares ideas for moving beyond traditional approaches, designing meaningful learning experiences, and building reflection into lessons in ways that have a lasting impact on students.

Lead Visual Arts Teacher for Plano ISD Cristina Correa joins the Creativity Department to talk about collaborative mural making at your school! She shares tried and true strategies for pitching mural projects to school leadership. How she overcomes the challenges of balancing student self-expression and a cohesive final piece. Cristina rounds out the episode with practical tips and techniques for managing student involvement, expectations, and ensuring the final design is a meaningful hands-on experience! Listen in to hear more from Cristina!

In this episode, Matt & Laura talk with NAEA’s Elementary Division Director – Leslie Grace about how to overcome the challenges that come with teaching in an elementary setting! Leslie shares her wisdom on how to maintain a personal creative practice while teaching, bridging the disconnect between educator and administration, and avoiding burn out. Listen in to hear more from Leslie! 

What happens when students take the lead in their artistic journeys? In this episode, the Creativity Department welcomes Jen Ferrari and Jill Hogan, authors of What Artists Do: TAB Pedagogy and Practice for K–12 Choice-Based Art Classes. They tackle common misconceptions about TAB and share practical strategies for fostering student creativity, independence, and self-expression, including assessment approaches and ideas for choice-based art rooms. 

What does it take to stay happy, creative, and growing as an art educator? Paul Kretchmer has a few rules for that! In this episode, the Creativity Department revisits Paul’s Happy Art Teacher Rules and explores how his philosophy can help educators sustain meaningful growth. From encouraging creative risk-taking and setting expectations to prioritizing self-care, Paul shares ideas that can support both teachers and students. Listen in for practical ways to integrate Paul’s philosophy into your art room. 

Sometimes we can get caught up in the newest trends. In this episode we’re slowing down and going back to basics! Matt and Laura chat about practical art room wisdom, building community, and the tried-and-true practices that help set the stage for success. With the new school year upon us, Matt shares how he starts each year at the middle school level, while Laura draws on her past experiences in administration to share insights on advocating for art educators. Listen in for a conversation filled with practical ideas, perspective, and a reminder that the basics are worth revisiting.

Taking on a leadership role when you don’t feel ready can be daunting. For art educators, leadership can mean advocating for your program, supporting your students, or speaking up for the value of arts education. In this episode, the Creativity Department talks with Lori Kirksted, author of The Imposter’s Guide to Authentic Leadership. Lori shares what she’s learned about leading with vulnerability and authenticity. Discover practical insights for finding your voice, building confidence, and leading without losing yourself. 

In this episode, Matt & Laura talk with musician and artist Jennifer Licko about how educators across subjects can work together to bring a multitude of cultures into their classrooms for students to explore and engage with. Jennifer had her start in Celtic dance, but as the years went by, she brought her passion into the classroom. She shares cross-curricular techniques and projects that have sparked a similar passion in students. Listen in to hear more from Jennifer! 

What does it take to make a museum experience meaningful, engaging, and relevant? Matt & Laura talk with Carolyn Keogh, Director of Education and Public Programs at Olana State Historic Site, about the many facets of her work and the evolving role of museums. Carolyn shares her creative journey and how she develops programs and conversations that invite visitors of all ages to connect with art, history, and ideas. Listen in for a fresh perspective on how museums can spark curiosity, invite connection, and encourage meaningful dialogue.