​Today, I would like to introduce a children's book called the dot. This book is written by Peter Reynolds. A girl who struggles with drawing follows her journey from a small dot to becoming an artist. As the fear of seeing the white paper comes back to life when we first start painting, it tells an interesting story of how to overcome that fear and become an artist through the artist's eyes.

​Art is a powerful medium that allows individuals to express themselves and explore their creativity. However, for some children, the idea of painting can be daunting and overwhelming. That's where a remarkable book comes into play - one that provides an invaluable resource for helping children overcome their fear of painting by starting from a small point. As I delve into the contents and graphics of this book, I find inspiration for designing my upcoming summer art class. Its magic lies in transforming grandiose challenges into manageable tasks, all through the humble dot.

​Every corner of this book is simple, but illustrators hiding interesting ideas are hidden here and there.

The use of the word dot and the transformation of the word "O" into a picture is a really clever idea. 

​Within the pages of this remarkable book, there lies a treasure trove of keywords that serve as guideposts for children venturing into the world of painting. These words hold profound meaning, offering insights into approaching art in an empowering way. Concepts such as patience, experimentation, imagination, and courage form the foundation upon which children can build their artistic skills. Each keyword serves as a stepping stone towards conquering fear and embracing the joy of painting.

 ​The main character, Vashti can't draw any pictures until the art class is over. When I ask students for a free theme during my first drawing class, they are very perplexed.

​Below is a passage that shows how important teachers and mentors play in art education. The art teacher takes a closer look at her blank sheet of paper.

Instead of scolding Vashti, the teacher tells her that there is a polar bear in the painting, and understands her fears, worries, and difficulties about her painting.

​After hearing the teacher's words, she suddenly stamped the paper with a pencil, either angry or excited. Then a small dot appeared.

​So cognitive Vashti starts to get stimulated. She gradually becomes immersed in art to understand the world. It's like seeing all the artists for the first time. Artists also compare themselves to others and are more likely to fail if they do their own work. The act of starting from a small point of oneself and gradually growing that point is what makes a great artist.

The book's illustrations are a visual feast, capturing the essence of overcoming obstacles through the power of a single dot. As children flip through the pages, they witness the transformation of a daunting challenge into a simple, approachable dot. The progression from small to big, from simple to complex, empowers young artists to believe in their ability to create and explore.

 ​Eventually, Vashti becomes an artist and even exhibits. This is the moment when she sees how great art can be from a small piece she takes. Maybe that's why the author's intention is also shown in this book. It is neither flashy nor cool like other children's books, but this author's book creates a beautiful and meaningful story with crooked handwriting and simple pictures, and eventually makes us seriously think about what art is.

​In the end, Vashti looks just like the teacher who inspired her to the student who wants to follow her as a mentor.

Using this extraordinary book as my guide, I am excited to embark on a journey of creativity with my students in the upcoming summer art class. By emulating the book's approach, we will break down seemingly complex projects into smaller, manageable tasks. Each session will focus on a specific element, nurturing the students' artistic abilities while instilling confidence in their own unique stories.

​Art possesses the power to inspire, motivate, and transform. With the guidance of this exceptional book, we can empower children to overcome their fear of painting, starting from a small point and reaching incredible heights of creativity. Through the upcoming summer art class, we will embark on an adventure where each stroke of the brush carries a story waiting to be told. Together, we will cultivate a lifelong love for art and provide a nurturing space for young artists to flourish.

 ​Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to a wonderful book that combines creativity, education, and cultural appreciation. "Drawing Around the World" is a fantastic resource designed to help children from multicultural families draw objects that symbolize their country. Through this blog post, we'll explore the significance of this book and how it can empower children to express their cultural identities through art.

Now, it's time to dive into the heart of the book – drawing objects that symbolize different countries. Each section focuses on a specific country, briefly introducing its culture, history, and prominent symbols. Children will learn to draw these symbols step-by-step, with clear instructions and accompanying illustrations. Children will explore iconic landmarks and objects from various cultures, from the Statue of Liberty in the United States to the Eiffel Tower in France.

 This chapter serves as a comprehensive guide, breaking down the process of drawing various objects using basic shapes. Step-by-step instructions are provided, accompanied by clear illustrations, to help children understand how to transform basic shapes into intricate details. From animals and vehicles to everyday objects, children will learn techniques to bring their artistic visions to life.

​By drawing familiar objects with intricate details, children not only express their creativity but also gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture and heritage. Through their artwork, they celebrate the uniqueness of Korea and contribute to fostering a more inclusive and culturally diverse world.

 ​Below are some of the drawings my child drew.

When I entered art class as a child, I knew I had found my sanctuary. The atmosphere was different there - unlike any other subject in school. It was a space where talking, moving around, and helping friends were allowed and encouraged. Art class became a haven of unlimited freedom and happiness, where the wings of imagination could spread to their fullest extent. As I grew older and pursued my passion for art, I realized the true preciousness of this time, especially as I now have the opportunity to teach and inspire my own students. I firmly believe that the principles of freedom, creativity, joy, and communication that thrive in art class should be embraced and applied across all subjects in education.

In art class, imagination reigns supreme. Unlike other subjects that often have strict guidelines and predefined answers, art allows for boundless exploration. It is a time when students can let their minds roam freely, transcending the boundaries of reality to create something truly unique. Whether drawing, painting, sculpting, or any other form of artistic expression, students are given the autonomy to choose their subjects, colors, and styles. This freedom empowers them to tap into their innate creativity and develop their artistic voices.

One of the most beautiful aspects of art class is the sense of community it fosters. Students can share their artwork, ideas, and stories with one another. Through this sharing, they learn from each other, build connections, and develop empathy. Art becomes a medium for communication, enabling students to express their emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Whether discussing the inspiration behind a piece or offering constructive feedback, the art class community thrives on the belief that every voice deserves to be heard and celebrated.

In today's fast-paced and demanding educational landscape, stress relief is more crucial than ever. Art class provides a respite from the pressures of exams and deadlines, allowing students to unwind and find solace in their creative endeavors. Creating art promotes mindfulness, as students immerse themselves in the present moment, focusing on each brush or pencil stroke. This meditative quality of art class allows students to temporarily set aside their worries, embrace self-expression, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.

While art class is often seen as an oasis of freedom and creativity, these principles can also be integrated into other subjects. By incorporating elements of choice, imagination, and collaboration, educators can create an atmosphere that encourages students to think outside the box and engage with their learning on a deeper level. Whether it's through project-based assignments, group discussions, or personal reflections, students should be encouraged to express their ideas and explore diverse perspectives.

Art class holds a special place in my heart, as it provided me with a sanctuary where freedom, creativity, joy, and communication thrive. As an artist and educator, I am passionate about incorporating these principles into all subjects, as they can ignite a love for learning and nurture well-rounded individuals. By embracing the values of art class, we can create an educational environment that celebrates individuality, fosters imagination, and encourages students to participate actively in their own education. Let us paint a brighter future for education that celebrates the beauty of self-expression in every subject.

   Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and witness the mesmerizing works of seven extraordinary young artists who took part in the illustrious Long Island illustration contest. Prepare to be captivated as we embark on a journey into the enchanting world of the circus, where imagination knows no bounds and creativity reigns supreme.

 Each brushstroke, each pencil mark, carries the essence of these talented artists, shining brightly like stars scattered across the velvet night sky. Their artistry transcends boundaries, showcasing the remarkable diversity and exquisite beauty that can be found within the circus realm.

 Through their skillful hands and imaginative minds, they transport us to a realm where acrobats soar through the air with effortless grace, where daring tightrope walkers defy gravity's grasp, and where clowns paint smiles upon our faces with their playful antics.

 As you feast your eyes upon their creations, prepare to be awestruck by the vibrant colors that dance across the canvas, the intricate details that breathe life into each character, and the narratives that unfold with every stroke.
In these artistic masterpieces, you will witness the joy and wonder that permeate the circus, the magical moments that elicit gasps of amazement and laughter. Each artist has woven their unique vision, infusing their works with a touch of their own brilliance, allowing us to glimpse the circus through their extraordinary eyes.
Marvel at the intricate tapestry of emotions captured in these illustrations – the excitement, the anticipation, and even the fleeting moments of vulnerability. Each piece unveils a different facet of the circus, evoking a kaleidoscope of feelings within our hearts.

​ So come one, come all, and witness the magnificence of these young artists who shine like the stars in the night sky. Let their creations ignite your imagination, fill your spirit with awe, and remind you of the limitless power of artistic expression.
For within the magic of the circus and the artistry of these young visionaries, we find a reflection of our own dreams and aspirations. May their works inspire us to reach for the stars, to embrace our creativity, and to believe that anything is possible under the big top of life's grandest stage.

 The children's book below is a book that can indirectly convey a mother's love to children with beautiful illustrations. ​I personally have the Korean version of this book.

  ​I plan to use this book to teach children how to draw fish movements as illustrations. This is because in this book, it is a good opportunity for children to easily understand movement and emotion together and to draw a metaphorical expression of a fish as an object that expresses emotions.

​You can draw various scenes, such as a fish hugging like a human, swimming across fast currents, or drawing a front and back view of a fish.

 ​I love children's books and illustrations that stimulate the imagination. I also want to write a book with such a beautiful story someday.