Due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown restrictions, open and distance learning (ODL) has become the preferred delivery model of instruction at most institutions of higher learning. The ODL mode of instruction has become the most common alternative even for art teacher education amidst numerous practical challenges. This conceptual paper argues that the reorientation of art pedagogy in ODL changes learning and teaching habits of art practical content providing independent critical thinking as well as a new appreciation of learners' intellectual, emotional and social involvement in learning. The paper recommends critical art pedagogy as a pedagogy that develops critical skills and generates emancipatory and transformative patterns of teaching and learning art. This could inform both theory and practice as well as relinquish the lecturers' authority in traditional face to face teaching. Critical art pedagogy could address the dilemma faced by many institutions during this COVID-19 era in their desire to engage and empower art student teachers. [For the complete Volume 19 proceedings, see ED613922.]