AT Miller

How is art valuable in your life?

Art opens up deep windows into emotion and intuition. It provides expression beyond words. Language is an entirely inadequate way to truly portray human emotion. That is what makes a piece deserve the title of art: that it has this ability to relay a message beyond words.

In trying to promote a multicultural style of teaching, do you find art to be an important aspect of cultural understanding?

The best way to learn about another culture is to ask questions; to be generously curious. You have to share. You can't learn if you're holding back. Consider a variety of media, art definitely included. Sometimes when you are trying to present an idea, a novel might be a much better tool than straight facts. You have to engage students' imaginations and combine this with cognitive logic.

Is there a certain medium of art or art of a certain culture that touches you the most?

Not really. I don't like using the word "favorite." I am very open. I can look at an Italian glasswork exhibit or get on stage and perform in my folk duo or with the U-M choral union. The visual art I collect is mostly of African origin, but really, many things can be wonderful to me. I am open to anything.