Penny rundle: Artist and Teacher
“Every child is born an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
After completing a Fine Art degree at Staffordshire University I explored the world a little and so far have enjoyed 20 years of teaching Art. As an artist teacher I have watched countless people experience the fascination of really seeing for the first time and understanding what that can offer them. As many students have said to me, by making art we engage with the world around us in a way that others will never understand. My approach is to find ways to engage in the making process as an act of discovery and to offer an environment where creativity can thrive.
“I have learnt that what I have not drawn I have never really seen, and that when I start to draw an ordinary thing, I realise how extraordinary it is.”
I have many years of successful practice in teaching Art, Photography and Art History at GCSE and A level. Further to this I am experienced in guiding students in portfolio preparation as they embark on higher education journeys. Life drawing is a fundamental skill I have offered for most of my teaching career and I have worked with small groups of professional artists to share in this challenging and rewarding practice.
Why Art?
When I think back through key ‘artwork’ moments in my life there are many to choose from but all of them share one thing - they are the outcome of completely losing myself to the subject or object of my studies. We draw to see, and we have to see with purpose to draw, this holds an enduring fascination for me. It motivates me to do what I do everyday and share this process with others.
To lose yourself to a drawing or painting is not only fun, it enlightens and lightens the everyday - if you haven't tried it, you should...
“Without your belief in me I would never have even tried out my ideas. You were always ready with praise and always able to explain how I could improve. ”
My skills and philosophy
- Open approach that is flexible to ensure I meet individual needs and interests
- Expertise in working 1:1 and with groups of all sizes
- An in-depth knowledge of how beginners learn to draw
- Making art should be fun!
- Everyone can find a way to improve and enjoy the process
- Learning skills is empowering
- Developing a creative outlook opens many doors....