Looking through Kaleidoscope:  Prisms of Self and LGBTQ Youth Identity

Joni Boyd Acuff

Joni Boyd Acuff University of North Texas

Abstract

This reflective essay details aspects of a participatory action research study in which I observed and examined the activities of students working in an after-school LGBTQ facility. The study was designed to teach art for social justice and explore the ways artmaking can be a transformative tool in a social environment. However, the activities in which the participants engaged not only increased their knowledge about social justice, but also ignited critical selfreflection and analysis of their world. Furthermore, I describe how my experience as an ally in this LGBTQ space resulted in my own person and professional transformation.

Author Biography

Joni Boyd Acuff, University of North Texas

Joni Boyd Acuff is an Assistant Professor of Art Education at the University of North Texas, located in Denton, Texas, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate students in art education. Dr. Acuffâ€™s research investigates multiculturalism, social reconstructivism, and social justice as they pertain to curricular development, pedagogy, instructional strategies, and inclusion in art and art education. Acuffâ€™s research also examines and supports the utilization of participatory action research and its place in art teacher training programs.

Dr. Joni Boyd Acuff is the recipient of the 2011 Manuel Barkan Dissertation Fellowship Award at The Ohio State University. Acuffâ€™s professional art education experience includes teaching art in both traditional and non-traditional spaces like public schools, community centers, museums, and art schools since 2001. Dr. Acuffâ€™s curricular development initiatives include the creation and facilitation of art instruction for special needs classes in multiple central Texas public schools. Additionally, Acuff produced a comprehensive middle school curriculum for New Media Middle School, a newly founded charter middle school located in Columbus, Ohio.

Correspondence regarding this article should be addressed to the author at Joni. Acuff@ unt.edu