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Before I moved away, I decided to give away all of my oil paints, brushes, canvases and easel to an artist friend of mine. Although I'm sure she has been enjoying them, I miss my paints terribly. Living in such a magical place is inspiring me to paint more than ever, so I have been trying my hand at watercolour. I must say, so far it has been quite a challenge!! I have become accustomed to layering and blending oil paints and have a hard time thinking in washes. The other day, I stumbled upon an etsy site called United Thread, and instantly became inspired. The artist, Michelle's illustrations are gorgeous! I really admire her unique application of paint and thoughtful compositions. I could definitely see her illustrating children's books if she hasn't done so already.
I would love to share one of my very favourite websites with you. I visit this site every week or so, and I am always inspired by the creative projects that Marla and her students come up with. Marla McLean is an atelierista at the Reggio-inspired Peabody School in Washington DC. Her skill as an art teacher shines through in her students' work, and she is a wonderful story teller and photographer. I have been feeling disheartened at the overall lack of quality visual arts programs that exist (or don't exist) in most public schools today. Visiting Marla's blog reminds me that there are exceptional art teachers out there, fighting the good fight. Thanks Marla!! xo
I am currently supporting an eight year old student who has been diagnosed with high-functioning Autism. Working alongside him has motivated me to further understand how individuals with Autism might experience daily life differently. I recently watched the new(ish) Temple Grandin film starring Claire Danes, who does an incredible job portraying an incredible woman. I would definitely recommend watching this film, as well as the documentary, entitled 'The Woman who Thinks Like a Cow' which you can find on you tube. Grandin was diagnosed with autism as a child, and has since earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, as well as a Masters degree and a PhD in Animal Science. She is a strong advocate for the ethical treatment of animals, and has used her knowledge of animal behaviour to redesign the cattle industry. Check out her TED talk here.
I am currently working at an alternative school in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, called The Living and Learning School. It is situated on the edge of the ocean, and I love to see the children playing on the beach at recess and lunch time. One day, a five year old student of mine explained to me how to hunt for baby crabs by flipping rocks, then making tiny boats for them out of shells. She asked me to hold a medium sized baby crab for her, and I got spooked and dropped it in a puddle! She looked at me for a moment and said, “It’s okay, when I was a little girl, I was scared to hold them too.” Ah, when the teacher becomes the student. I suppose I have a lot to learn about island life.
I have recently moved to the lovely islands of Haida Gwaii and I have been simply bowled-over by the wild beauty that surrounds me. I am so grateful to my lovely friend Alicia and my new friend Doug, for their warmth and hospitality. I look forward to posting some photographs and stories soon!
