Teacher Shortage

50 x 80cm / 20 x 31 inches: Available for sale: $4000
This painting was a finalist in the Calleen Art Award 2024
Artist statement
This painting, a self-portrait, reflects my experience as a classroom teacher over the past 20 years.
 
The post-it notes on my skirt and top reveal many of the roles we, as teachers, are asked to fulfil.
 
The red tape around my legs and ankles depicts the compliance measures teachers have to meet each day, to justify each task we undertake.
 
There are two piles of books in the painting: those books on the right hand side of the painting show the subjects / ideas I believe are vital to teach- and would love to teach-  if given time in the crowded curriculum. The pile of books on the left depicts the paperwork and other compliance measures one must wade through. These have very little to do with teaching, but nonetheless, take up 90% of a teacher’s time.
 
The odd socks, represent a day when I was so exhausted that I accidently wore odd shoes to school. Although I didn’t notice, the children certainly did…
 
On the back wall are those inspirational ideas and quotes I hope to inspire in the children in my care. (But you may also notice amongst those pinned notes, slightly hidden, other challenging incidents I have had to deal, with as a teacher …)

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