From classical to contemporary approaches – the range of Gallery Stratford’s Art Educators bring unique strength and style to our programs. These creative leaders continually nurture and inspire the intelligence of imagination. In this Meet the Educator series, we will introduce the exceptional talents at the forefront of art education in our community.
Visual Artist & Art Educator: Melissa Quinn
Melissa Quinn is a mixed media artist living and working in Stratford and region since 2002. She earned her Honours B.A. in Fine Art Cultural Studies from York University (Toronto). Her goal is to encourage students to explore their own creativity through process and exposure to a variety of mediums – to see art as a means of communication, self expression, and fun.
A Gallery Strat Chat:
(Education Officer, Peg and Art Educator, Melissa Quinn)
Peg: Melissa, thank you for sitting down with me to answer some very nail biting questions.
Melissa: Uh-Oh.
Peg: What is your favourite colour?
Melissa: All blues.
Peg: I’m a blue girl too – but steel blue…sometimes found on the bottom of boats…do you know that shade of blue?
Melissa: ???
Peg: What is your favourite art material?
Melissa: Found objects.
A note to the reader: Melissa never throws anything out. It’s not that she’s a pack-rat; she simply sees the value in almost everything. It’s quite spectacular!
Peg: What is your favourite motto for teaching art?
Melissa: There are no mistakes, only lessons and opportunities for growth.
Peg: That is my type of motto! Who is your favourite artist of all time?
Melissa: Georgia O’Keefe. She was her own person, she lived her own life. And someday, I want to live in a desert with great big dogs.
Peg: Lastly, in addition to teaching and making art – what else should we know about you?
Melissa: I play guitar.
Peg: And…you are a really good whistler!
Thank you, Melissa for all that you do. We look forward to your future teachings, amazing creations, and hearing you whistle while you work!
Please visit our website to view classes led by Melissa Quinn.
~ Peg Dunnem, Education Officer
Gallery Strat Chat 