The month-long art exhibit features the works of Richmond teaching staff, educational assistants and administrative staff.<\/p>\n
Allison Shelling is peeling back the fourth wall across a number of different fronts.<\/p>\n
As an educator, she\u2019s showing her students the human side of teachers beyond times tables and ABCs \u2014\u00a0that they have hobbies, life stories and convictions.<\/p>\n
As a colleague, Shelling is helping other educators step out of their shells and embrace their artistic vision.<\/p>\n
A longtime art teacher at Richmond Secondary School, Shelling is the exhibition coordinator behind an art show called Beyond the Bell, which is on view now through Sept. 24 at the Upper Rotunda Gallery, Richmond Cultural Centre.<\/p>\n
Now in its fifth year, the exhibit showcases the artistic talents of employees from across the Richmond School District. This year\u2019s rendition includes the work of eight artists representing teaching staff, educational assistants and administrative staff, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the creative practices that thrive beyond the school day.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think [this show] brings this element of human risk taking that we ourselves are modelling for our students,\u201d Shelling said. \u201cBecause I am an art teacher, my students can see that I’m still practicing and pushing myself. There’s really something to be said about having the courage to put yourself out there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, cultural heritage, family histories and artistic influences, participants continually challenge themselves to create, experiment and develop their artistic practices.\u00a0Painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, digital painting and textile work are all represented in the show.<\/p>\n
Shelling\u2019s contributions lean on her penchant for an artistic process that dates back close to 200 years. Known as cyanotype, the pre-camera, photographic process helps Shelling tell her stories through collages and different imagery. Figure work, the female form and her Slovakian descent are some of the muses found in Shelling\u2019s pieces.<\/p>\n
As for Shelling\u2019s muse for the show, that came by way of COVID-19 when virtually everyone was virtual with loads of unexpected time on their hands.<\/p>\n
\u201cI didn’t feel comfortable applying to professional galleries, and so in the end I thought there would be other people working in the school district that are kind of feeling the same way and looking for a place to share their work,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The exhibition’s title, meanwhile, reflects the idea that while education shapes much of staff members’ daily lives, creativity often flourishes outside of work. These artistic pursuits frequently remain unseen by colleagues, students and the wider community. This exhibition brings those hidden talents into view, highlighting the presence of art across the school district and reminding visitors that creativity exists everywhere.<\/p>\n
The first three shows included the works of art teachers only, though the format has since shifted to include any district employee. It\u2019s a change that has opened a wellspring of creativity for those who may have otherwise felt uncomfortable spreading their artistic wings.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen we put art out in the world and let it breathe and invite others to witness our creativity, it really does do two things: it gives back to us in our confidence, but also it helps the community see that all creativity is valid,\u201d Shelling said. \u201cAnd that will maybe encourage someone else that hasn’t had the courage yet to put their work out there.\u201d<\/p>\n
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