Currently at Hale fifteen large and colourful portraits of teachers, adorn the foyer wall of the new Library as part of the Year 10 art class Archiboys portraits. Guided by art teacher Mr Michael O’Connell and based on the nationwide Archibald Art competition, the Year 10s have spent the last semester working on their pieces. They had to give a brief written explanation of their works and describe why this teacher was inspirational to portray, and what influenced them to paint the teacher in their selected style.
Junior school art teacher Mr Chris McClelland, brought up a class of very excited Year 5 art students to the new Library foyer to view the artwork and vote on their favourite pieces. Many couldn’t choose just one work. Mr McClelland pointed out that some of the artists had shown great promise in the Junior School art programme, giving inspiration to the Year 5s.
The Year 10s were influenced by the painting styles of past Archibald contestants and winners, famous painters like Matisse, and their own style that evolved as their paintings developed. The inspiration for their subjects came from many different directions. Some teachers being chosen just because they were “top blokes”, a few because they were influential as their Head of House or Assistant Head of House, and a few were great sport coaches.
Like the Archibald Prize, Hale has its own People’s Choice competition where Students and teachers can vote on their favourite portrait. Look for the box in the library reception if you wish to place your vote.
Here is a brief summary of why these Year 10 art students chose their subjects:
The Year 5's viewing the work and Junior School art teacher Chris McClelland