2025 Teaching Artist Institute: Preparing for the Year Ahead

​

The 2025 Teaching Artist Institute is a three-day professional development event designed to prepare MACC teaching artists for the upcoming year. The Institute will focus on deepening artistic practice, cultural knowledge, and collaboration within the community.

 

August 7, 2025: Kickoff Day: Gallery Visit, Staff Introductions & CanDo! Days Planning

The 2025 Teaching Artist Institute kicks off on August 7 with a guided gallery visit led by Jonathan Clark,  the Director of the MACC's Schaefer International Gallery, where participants will explore pieces related to this year’s theme. This day will also provide teaching artists with the chance to connect and be introduced to fellow MACC staff members, fostering new relationships within the organization. The group will discuss CanDo! Days, including both on-site and off-site opportunities throughout Maui County, and explore potential for expansion or take-home projects. This is a great opportunity to build a strong network and prepare for the year ahead.

​

August 8, 2025: Chang Farms Cultural & Artistic Exploration

Held at Chang Farms in Kīhei, this day will immerse participants in the cultural significance of Mea Kanu (plants) and their artistic uses. The day begins with a welcome to ground the group in the day’s themes and intentions then a short video presentation.  Following the opening, a guided farm tour will explore a variety of plants, culminating at the ʻUlu Tree, which holds deep cultural and symbolic meaning. This will be followed by an ʻUlu Workshop & Storytelling session, where participants will discuss the cultural significance of the ʻulu tree and engage in a reflective conversation. Afterward, a hands-on Pa‘i‘ai demo (mashed breadfruit) will allow everyone to actively participate in creating this traditional dish while enjoying a lunch break. The afternoon will include a discussion on an upcoming Arts Project in partnership with the MPD Juvenile Counseling Department, providing an opportunity for participants to ask questions and offer input about the project’s goals and artist roles.

​

August 11, 2025: CPR Certification

The Institute wraps up with an on-site CPR certification session at the MACC, ensuring that all teaching artists are prepared with life-saving skills for the year ahead.

​

This Institute is an opportunity for MACC’s teaching artists to deepen their artistic and cultural expertise, build community connections, and gain valuable training in both artistic practice and safety.