NASC Art 101 Promoting Creativity and Expression

Perhaps no subject is as oriented to the individual than the arts and at Northern Adelaide Senior College, Art 101 students are expressing their creativity and world view through the medium of paint and pencil.

“Art 101 is an Art and Community Stage I subject where people can use art to develop their personal skills as well as their artistic skills,” says Ben Harker, Art 101 teacher.

“They choose a topic of interest and explore and research and hone and develop a final art or design work of their choice which is then shown in some way shape or form to members of the public who give them feedback.”

Ben says that the course is great for students who feel overwhelmed with school or English is not their native language.

“It’s for all students from various, diverse backgrounds. People with anxiety often works quite well to give them the space and time to do something they can choose,” says Ben.

“It also works well with developing English skills with EALD students and Learning Support students that would like to produce something in way that they might not do in a traditional class.”

Ahmad M., a Northern Adelaide Senior College student who is displaying his artwork in the upcoming FOMO Arts Showcase, says that he chose Ben’s class because he likes to draw.

“I just wanted to draw something when I like something,” says Ahmad.

“I draw Joker because I like the movie. When it’s something interesting for me or I just like it, I want to draw it. I like drawing. Makes me feel better when I feel stressed or when I feel bad, or feel bored.”

Ahmad is thankful of the impact that Ben and Art 101 has on his wellbeing.

“He’s kind, he’s good. When I come to class I feel like I can relax about the other things,” says Ahmed.

“Other classes can be boring, but when I come to this class, everything is ok for me and I want to learn more and I want to draw more. It’s good for me.”

Azar A., a NASC student hoping to enter university, agrees that Ben has reawakened her childhood love of creating art.

“He’s a gentleman. He’s a very gentle teacher, very nice. Like a friend to us. When we have questions, he explains to us and helps us, like a friend,” says Azar.

Ben says that the success of his class lies with the enthusiasm of his students.

“I think it’s the communication, diversity, the comradery, the ability to feel safe and the ability to pursue learning in a space that’s kind of unique,” smiles Ben.

If you’d like to express your creativity through any of our arts subjects, contact Northern Adelaide Senior College on (08) 7285 1600 to book an appointment.