For Visual Arts teacher Karren Pollerd, finding meaningful ways to engage students in art is by far the most important aspect of teaching the subject. Photos: Rechelle Zammit.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
At ACE Secondary College, Visual Arts nurtures motivation by allowing students to explore their creativity without the rigid success criteria.
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Their focus is on engaging students in meaningful artistic experiences while they learn the seven elements of art — the fundamental building blocks used by artists to create visual works.
These elements — line, shape, form, colour, value, texture, and space — form the foundation of visual art and are combined to create composition and convey meaning.
Visual Arts teacher Karren Pollerd, who teaches Years 7 to 10, said the school’s program offered students a welcomed break from academic pressures.
“Visual Arts not only boost creativity, but also help reduce stress — there are so many benefits to engaging with art,” she said.
“We explore a range of artists and techniques, and I always try to cater to the needs of our student cohort.
“With the experience I’ve gained over the years, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t.”
For Karren, finding meaningful ways to engage students in art is by far the most important aspect of teaching the subject.
She believes that having the space and time to be creative without pressure is key to the overall learning experience.
Another important, and quite fair, aspect of the program is that no student’s work is ever marked against another’s.
Assessments are always based on individual progress.
“They’re assessed individually, based on their progress and what they’ve achieved throughout the year,” Karren said.
“Taking risks is a big one — I encourage students to accept feedback and take creative risks with their work because there’s no such thing as bad art.
“They enjoy the routine, they know what I expect, and they understand their own abilities.”
“It’s all about building confidence in their creativity.”
Noting that some students who had almost given up had found a way to succeed, Karren highlighted the importance of individual growth and helping students experience a sense of achievement.
“Every child needs to be seen, heard, and valued — and Visual Arts can often provide those opportunities for everyone,” she said.
“If a student can create something meaningful despite initial struggles, then that deserves to be celebrated.
“I am really proud of what my students are achieving.”
– Kelly Lucas-Carmody
Artworks are building students’ confidence.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
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