Julie Mader   2016 ECCOTA Heart in the Arts recipient -
                                                          PA Wilds 2015 Artisan of the Year

As a teaching artist leading classes for both adults and children I strive to convey to my pupils that I value and respect that everyone carries with them a unique set of experiences that form who they are and how they interpret the world. I aim to be sensitive to student clues that can guide the approach to my method of presentation and content. Keeping in mind the difference in learning styles, age, cognitive abilities and physical limitations of my students I adjust lessons as needed to accommodate the class. I utilize sensory associations, movement, visual aids and demonstrations to share a lesson. Moving about the classroom during studio time provides opportunities to offer encouragement and check on student understanding. I am careful to ask questions before dispensing advice in regard to a project, I want my students to be expressing their emotional response,
insights and interpretation - not my own. The questions I hear most often from students at the conclusion of a workshop session or series are inquiries on where to purchase materials, I answer and smile knowing that art changes lives.

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