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A naturalistic, multiple-case study of six practicing visual artists
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative research study was to develop a naturalistic, multiple-case analysis of six visual artists through a series of in-depth interviews, focusing on the home, the school, and the individual; to investigate their development as professional artists; and to pose implications for ways in which teachers can create an environment to meet the needs of students. The participants in the study reflected a secure family environment and a belief they were born with talent, which was nurtured in an environment by meaningful others consisting of parents, extended family members, friends, teachers, or mentors. These individuals contributed to the development of the participants' self-concepts, internalized perceptions of self as an artist, and a decision to continue to create art on a short-term as well as a long-term basis. The artists conveyed qualities of a sense of a meditative and a spiritual nature in their work. These artists reported they created because that was who they were; they had an internalized need, and they did not feel right if they did not create. They were committed to their work. The participants suggested ongoing opportunities to create should be provided for all students in the visual arts. These included an awareness of individual differences, an open and accepting climate, and ongoing enrichment opportunities in the home and family environment, as well as in school and nonschool areas. Additional recommendations stressed the importance of parents and teachers who positively acknowledge the child's talent and individuality; provision of appropriate, abundant materials; a private space to work; provision of opportunities to see art in formal and informal settings; inclusion of an awareness of art in all aspects of the environment; adequate opportunities for enriched instruction; and allowing the individual the opportunity to be an artist using his or her own language.
Subject Area
Fine Arts
Recommended Citation
Brown, Joann S, "A naturalistic, multiple-case study of six practicing visual artists" (1995). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9604402.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9604402