students: culver city high

Michele Ogilvie
Teaching Philosophy

My teaching methodology is informed by 15 years of experience as a professional, exhibiting fine artist, graphic designer, metal-smith, freelance illustrator, and art director. I believe that the art of teaching carries with it a service ethic. I aspire to meet the needs of each student, by providing experiences and opportunities that best match their specific aptitudes, and skill levels. My classes are taught with high expectations and a push towards excellence. I aim to teach with equanimity, objective methods of assessment, inspiring critiques, engaging projects and most of all enthusiasm.

I advocate a strong foundation in basic technical skills, art elements and principles of design, vocabulary, theory, critical thinking and practice. In addition to teaching the process of making art—concept and self-expression are equally important. Helping students explore the intricacies of intention and meaning eventually becomes the catalyst for their work.

I consider the understanding and making of art as an essential gateway to personal and collective realization. I aspire to provoke and instill a high standard towards the discipline of art and integrity to teaching. It is my hope that through a cultural, historical, conceptual and philosophical approach to art, students will gain a better understanding of themselves, the world and their responsibility to these things. I see it as a privilege and an honor to help guide students (at any level) on this journey.