Bloom Teacher Connects Black Lives Matter to Art Class

Bloom Art instructor Deborah Filbin, PhD, recently published a scholarly article in the national publication, Art Education, in which she delved into the Black Lives Matter movement and how it ties into the student classroom experience.

“Generally, there is a lot of discomfort with talking about race, and we have seen in recent times the negative situations that can transpire when we don’t carefully communicate or listen to each other,” Filbin said when discussing the article. “By this, I mean productive, respectful, and healthy conversations that help us grow positively to help make a better society. Our children have great wisdom if we learn how to listen. My hope is that more of us be open to these conversations to help take a step in the right direction toward positive change.”

The article, titled “Discovering How Black Lives Matter: Embracing Student Voice in the Art Room,” was published in December of 2020, but was written from a study that was completed long before the civil unrest of 2020.

Filbin describes a clear connection between the art classroom and the national conversation about racial equity and justice.

“What is happening in society and everyday life affects our students deeply,” Filbin said. “They are keenly aware of what is going on in the world around them, especially because of the media and social media. Movements like BLM are very visually driven; logos visually identify the movement, images are shared, and visual statements are posted. This awareness of current events is something that has a profound impact on our student’s lives, experiences, and perceptions of the world. The arts are a wonderful way for students to express what they are thinking and feeling and are a great way for students to process their thoughts and emotions.”

Bloom 206 Superintendent Lenell Navarre noted the value of educators lending their voice and insights to important national dialogues. “When we talk about the experiences of our students, families, and communities, there is an important perspective to be heard from our educators,” Navarre said. “They share space and connect with large groups of young people in a way that not many others can. Dr. Filbin has contributed a thoughtful and informative article and I hope many take the time to read it.”

If you would like to purchase and read Filbin’s Art Education article, visit the link to see the preview page and more.

“I have been very fortunate to be an educator at Bloom District 206 for over 20 years,” Filbin said. “I have worked with so many supportive parents, colleagues, and students. While I have learned so much throughout my time teaching at Bloom, I think what is at the heart of the article, is how my students have been leaders in showing me how to be a better teacher.”