I am Hamilton Child Care Centre’s art tutor and hold a Bachelor of Contemporary Arts, a Diploma of Visual Art and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching. Studying art extensively developed my broad knowledge of methods and materials that is embedded in the art studio’s learning programs. I own an independent gallery in Newcastle on the side and enjoy weaving the current active Newcastle art scene and culture into our educational experiences in which children are provided rich learning opportunities to meet Newcastle practicing artists, enjoy workshops with practitioners, talk with illustrators and enjoy regional and independent gallery tours.
‘This is not a studio full of identical flower paintings”
I started working at HCCC in 2019 and like to create a space that has a balanced approach to learning that uses intentional teaching strategies, guided instruction and free exploration. This creates a learning environment where children can develop their visual art skills whilst maintaining and developing a strong sense of self. I love the Reggio approach to teaching art in early childhood. It fits like a glove. Children are naturally creative and abstract thinkers. I enjoy seeing their voice prominent in their work and the dialogue they construct around it. I think it’s important to discuss the work with the child properly and not assume what you are seeing. Each work on the wall is as unique and individual as your child is!