We were were sent a message from Michelle, one of our Supported Learning Community Art tutors who was exploring art and discussing the philosophy of life with her students. It is an inspiring read that shows the positive impact courses have on people’s lives.
“On Wednesday in Community Art, we were exploring Tyree Guyton as part of Black History month. Guyton is an urban environmental artist who transformed his poverty-stricken neighbourhood in Detroit by painting and graffitiing derelict houses and using old junk to create interesting sculptures along the streets. He says ‘My art is medicine for the community.’
I was talking to the students about Guyton having said that, ‘Life without art is stupid,’ and I said how that is like a philosophy on life, that life is nothing without art. I said to the students that we were going to think of what OUR philosophy on life is… what would life be ‘stupid’ without? At this point, a student shouted out….’Life without someone else is stupid! Yes! That’s right!’
Life without someone else is stupid!
How awesome is that?! How profoundly insightful and emotionally aware is that?! How beautiful! I was totally floored by this, really moved, as were the other support workers and learning support assistants in the room. I asked the student who is important to him and he said his mum.
I did the same thing in Art and Craft and another student said that, ‘Life without College is stupid.’ This wasn’t prompted at all… it was completely her own thought.”
Michelle also has a message for all the amazing tutors and staff who continue to inspire their students everyday to develop their skills.
“I hope that this has made you smile. What an incredibly brilliant job teachers and tutors do by providing opportunities for so many students to feel part of a community at college, which both students really understand on a deeply emotional and fundamental level. Both of them recognise that being with people and at college makes their life better, and you have given them that opportunity.”
Our Supported Learning courses have been created specifically for those with learning difficulties and disabilities. To view more courses and further information, visit our website.
We love to hear about your experiences.
If you would like to share your experiences about what you’ve achieved, gained, and developed whilst studying with us, we would love to hear from you.
Contact us to share your story – acl.nostoppingme@essex.gov.uk
