Gary Boisvert
608-612-0142
westcentral_vp@wiarted.org

Click on the file (located to the left) to download the 2012 West Central invite packet.

Technology as a Tool for Creativity and Necessity



“Technology” derives from Greek origin meaning “the study of art, skill, craft” while the use of technology is often measured as a means for one to control or to adapt to one’s environment. Therefore, technology seems fitting within any art room, within any curriculum. The use of any technology in combination with creativity has given the world inventions. When talking “digital technology”  educators utilize the art, skill, and craft of incorporating a handheld device, a Wacom tablet and stylus, or the computer keyboard and mouse as means to produce a vast array of artistic creations.

Our region has submitted many ideas as to the use of digital technology as a means of not only creativity, but also a necessary tool. To mention a few of those ideas includes the creation of digital portfolios for scholarship, college applications, job interviews, on-line competitions, and electronic art displays. Taking a mere photograph of one’s artwork keeps a visual record of the work and progress from the beginning to the end of the school year. It is a means of documenting student work for ease in sharing with parents at parent-teacher conferences. It is a great way to celebrate our young artists at award ceremonies showcasing their artwork.

As a creative tool the students can easily create high-end flash animations, or non-linear animations and videography. The students can use the digital darkrooms that are so widely available. The history and uses of typography, graphic design, and commercial art can be taught, practiced, and achieved with our digital classrooms. Yearbook is flooding into many different art departments within Wisconsin and the art department is seen a valuable tool in the creation of these yearbooks.

The computer can enhance our art work and our study of art. Some teachers will scan the drawings into the computer, show possible changes that the artist can do to improve a self-portrait. Showing the suggested changes without making alterations to the original artwork allows the teacher to discuss their thought process when looking at and producing an artwork. The computer gives us access to art museums and art galleries that are environmentally safe removing the need for buses and travel arrangements. Visiting online galleries provides flexibility and the ability to avoid schedule conflicts and is affordable for our students. The computer can depict the progression of a sculpted piece of art from just a solid ball of clay or piece of wood.

The use of the computer has given us Internet resources, lesson plans, grading rubrics, and “tried and true” practices for us to refer to or to individualize to our own classroom. Digital technology is here for all of us to embrace, to ease our load, to help our students, supplement our instruction, and promote our art departments across the state.