Unlearn the rules, break the boundaries, free the thought process, and rediscover your untapped potential.

These are the words of artist and motivational speaker Erik Wahl, who presented his powerful message on the Art of Vision in Education, during the annual kick-off meeting for HCPSS Administrators. Erik began his presentation today by creating a very large oil painting of Bono, the lead singer of U2, while the song "Beautiful Day" was playing and still photos were being flashed on the screen. He told us that Bono is one of his hero’s for his amazing ability to make beautiful music and how he works to make the world a more peaceful place.

After creating his first painting he talked about the critical need for educators to help students think analytically, logically and also CREATIVELY. He shared that most of our society's great innovators were able to see the world from a different perspective and were not bound by the norms of what is “acceptable thinking”. Focus, Commitment and Adaptability are the skills that innovators are able to harness and use to create positive change. Clearly, we have many challenges today…as educators, are we helping our kids to gain the skills to be able to meet and solve these challenges? In this era where creativity is not valued since it is “Not on the Test”, educators need to intentionally help to develop the left side of the brain where creativity is housed. After all, creativity is what makes someone truly remarkable and valuable!

To finish his powerful presentation, Erik again provided a full sensory show by playing music and displaying inspirational photos while he energetically painted another large oil painting. When the slideshow finished, he stopped painting and flipped his artwork 180 degrees to reveal a portrait of Einstein that he had painted upside down.

Erik's presentation was a great way to kick-off another school year! His words and amazing works of art have reinforced my beliefs that all students should be provided a wide-range of Related Arts to foster creativity and innovation! For more information about Erik, here is a link to his website - http://www.theartofvision.com.