With technological advancements evolving rapidly and impacting all 
areas of modern day life, art educators must consider the complexities 
of how emerging technologies are being integrated into the teaching 
and learning of art. Technologies such as artificial intelligence are 
expanding creative possibilities, generating new ways of visualizing 
ideas, and providing alternative pathways to communicating and 
learning. However, the presence of artificial intelligence in art education 
also raises challenges and critical concerns regarding authenticity, 
authorship, and human voice. 
	
The 2026 issue of TRENDS explores pedagogical approaches and 
critical issues in art education through the lens of emerging technologies 
in K-12 and higher education settings. The featured articles pose 
recommendations for interpreting and integrating artificial intelligence 
into educational practices. This year’s issue acknowledges the risk and 
reward of integrating emerging technologies into art education as 
educators navigate how technology and machine intelligence coexist 
with human imagination. 
	
The first article embraces technology as a resource to engage 
students in reflective artmaking. Elementary age students apply 
technology to photograph and reinterpret self-portraits in Neo-
Expressionistic styles while maintaining authenticity and personal 
meaning. Reflection, critical thinking, and visual literacy are addressed 
in the second article which delivers actionable tools and frameworks for 
integrating artificial intelligence at the secondary level. Recommended 
guidance is also provided through a tiered structure that clarifies the 
boundaries of creative authorship for students.
7
TRENDS 2026 	
	
PAGE

View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.