Ashely Alvarez Tovar
Joanna Gurney is passionate about art and wants to pass that on to her students.
South art teacher Joanna Gurney sat down with senior reporter Ashely Alvarez and shared some of her thoughts about art and education.
What inspired you to become an art teacher?
I’ve always been passionate about art growing up; it brought a sense of self to me as a person. I also had such passion and talent for it, and I’m blessed that I have people in my life that encouraged me to continue at a young age. As an art teacher, I get to spend my day making art, sharing art-making skills with others and learning with – and from – other artists as they create. How cool is that?!
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
Students bring different perspectives and ideas into the classroom as they grow and develop; every year there is something new, and I am also learning from students too.
How long have you been teaching at South?
It’s my fourth year here at South; I student taught here too.
Do you want to continue teaching art?
Yes, I can see myself teaching art for the rest of my life, and if I do retire, I always see myself doing art.
Do you have any fun hobbies?
I love collecting music and going to concerts. My favorite music is metal and alternative. I like hanging around with friends as well.
It you weren’t an art teacher, what would you be doing instead?
I would be a lawyer. It was either law or art, but art brings a sense of self to me. Being a lawyer was one choice because I also have lots of lawyers in my family.
What’s your favorite type of art to create and why?
My favorite art to create is a portrait, either sculptures or painted ones. I think humans and animals are the most beautiful, interesting, meaningful and important subjects. I think it’s special to capture a moment of someone in a painting or sculpture. Also, art lasts longer than we do so capturing moments in art is important to me. The most impactful experiences and feelings are connected to people and animals, so it makes sense that it motivates people to express this through art.
What’s your advice to someone who thinks they are not good at art?
Art is for everyone. There’s no way to be ‘good’ at art; it’s all about expression, personal growth, and making personal meaning, not perfection. Art comes in many forms; from painting to poetry to photography to digital design, and as long as you are expressing yourself, you’re already an artist. Think of it like learning a new language; you improve through practice, exploration and embracing mistakes along the way.