Feb 7

Feb 7 To Teach or not to Teach? That is the Question

Episode 17: A career as an artist is not always all about making art, for some people it is also about making artists, teaching your skills to others so that they can make art too.

All artists are born to teach right? Teaching is often a good revenue stream for artists and can bring many other benefits, but it turns out it’s not a good choice for everyone. In this episode Laura and Peter, both keen teachers, discuss the delights and the pitfalls of teaching so that you can make an educated decision about educating others.

A career as an artist is not always all about making art, for some people it is also about making artists, teaching your skills to others so that they can make art too. It isn't for everyone, some see it as a chore and if that's the case then better to steer clear of it because you are unlikely to be a good teacher. However teaching can be immensely rewarding and financially beneficial, and as a teacher you may even learn from your students and from the process of unpicking your practice to teach it. Both Peter and Laura teach, having included it in their businesses for many years, alongside making art, both enjoy the challenge it brings. Today they talk about their experiences and how making teaching a part of your business can be more than just an additional revenue stream.

In this episode…

· Find a niche that suits you: teaching can range from kids to adults, drop in community projects to exclusive one to ones, weekends to a regular weekly class and don’t forget teaching through demonstrations and talks.

· Three key essentials for a good teacher;

1. Know your subject thoroughly. Your teaching skills will develop over time, but never wing it when it comes to lesson content. You will be tested!

2. Preparation is key. You must have all the materials and tools needed, know how much time to allow and be able to improvise when surprises crop up.

3. Be supportive and enthusiastic. Leave the ego at the door, but bring your passion! Use your skill to coax the best from your students and your entusiasm to inspire and excite the class.

· Teaching gives both financial stability and a unique opportunity for a deeper understanding of your art. We all need money, but don’t underestimate the benefits of having to push your skills, explain your motives and justify your techniques to a questioning audience.

· Dip your toes in the water. Begin by teaching friends and family. Get as much feedback as you can and then offer a ‘materials fee only’ class for strangers for some unbiased honesty before you teach for real.

· Be honest. If money is the only reason you want to teach, walk away. Students will spot a reluctant teacher in a heartbeat and a reputation as a poor or unenthusiastic teacher will harm your overall reputation as an artist. Don’t make people pay to find out that you hate teaching!