In my research, I aim to understand the ways in which artmaking functions as a meaningful and socio-cultural practice for young children. Through observing children make art, as well as participate in artmaking experiences with them, I believe we can begin to understand how and why art is important in the lives of young people. My research is based on understanding children’s voluntary and spontaneous artmaking practices, yet I am also intrigued by the ways in which children negotiate their own interests within more structured classroom art experiences. I believe that art education should offer children the chance to explore ideas and issues that are relevant to their own lives and experiences. It is in these moments (when the school curriculum meets children’s desires) that I believe the most meaningful art encounters occur. However, in order to facilitate these moments, we must understand what drives children’s interests. By participating in research with young children that centers on the kinds of art they produce for themselves, we can begin to uncover what they consider to be important and meaningful. 

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