My Influence

Alexa Mattson

UW Stout

ARTED108

September 14th, 2020

 Ever since elementary school I knew I wanted to be a part of the art career field. So, I
could express my creative freedom and imagination. Although, I had many teachers and other
people that have pushed me to become an art teacher; one person definitely plays a major role. I
was first introduced to Mrs. Brady when I was in the first grade. She was a very kind and
respectful woman. Most importantly she accepted every student's personality and let them be
who they want to be. There are many things that I love about my elementary school art teacher
but certain qualities stick out. Mrs. Brady inspired me to be an art teacher because she had really
enjoyable projects to create, her classroom was comforting, and she was an understandable and
caring individual.

Firstly, Mrs. Brady had many memorable projects that I loved. One project that stuck
with me was using the Village Story Blanket to create our own version. We had the opportunity
to tell our own stories just like the creator, Pa Lee Thao. We first were introduced to the meaning
behind the blanket, why it was important, and of course the creator. Mrs. Brady explained to the
students what every symbol meant in the original piece. From there I got to highlight the most
significant factors and figures in my life. Such as pets, friends, family, and particular hobbies
that I enjoyed. Another project that I found interesting was making our own clay or terracotta
suns. The students had to follow the original look of the sun. Which included big eyes, sun rays
surrounding a circle and dots separating certain lines. We got the choice to pick our favorite
color glazes or ones that just stood out to us. Most of these projects I got to learn more about
certain cultures and history of famous artists. Mrs. Brady made lesson plans very entertaining
and interesting no matter what topic.

Next, Mrs. Brady’s classroom always was my favorite place to be in. Every class period
got me in my creative mindset. I remember making my own little projects during our given free
time. I drew a lot of images and thoughts that came from my imagination and even made my
own sketchbook from construction paper. Every kid in her class would be laughing and smiling.
Anyone who passed the classroom could tell we were enjoying ourselves and making most of the
time we spent together. Although Mrs. Brady would entertain us by art projects and creative free
time Mrs. Brady would tell us funny stories and even jokes too. She knew how to light up any
kid’s day and make them feel a lot better if they are feeling upset.

Finally, Mrs. Brady was a very caring and understanding individual. Sometimes I would
come talk to her after class or when she was not busy. I really wanted to get to know her and
comprehend how she made her class so much fun. Anyone could tell when she was seriously
listening to the person talking. Her eyes would be attentive to them and she would concentrate to
fully understand. When a student had a question she was always patient and took her time
answering. Mrs. Brady would make sure nobody felt ashamed for questions and instead
celebrated them for having the courage to ask. Another example of her caring quality is that if
kids were struggling with a project Mrs. Brady would always be there to rescue. She always
wanted to help her students and get them to accomplish their necessary goals for her class.
 Overall, Mrs. Brady had a significant impact on my life and definitely a huge role for me
to decide to become an art teacher. Anyone could tell she truly loved her job. Mrs. Brady had a
bunch of art projects that were very memorable, her classroom was a fun but safe place, and just
as a person she was absolutely wonderful. I definitely want to somewhat recreate her style of
teaching but make it my own. If I could see her and talk to her I would tell her how much of a
role model she was for me to become an art teacher. Mrs. Brady was definitely one of my
favorite teachers growing up and she will always have a place in my heart. I hope that if Mrs.
Brady ever saw me majoring in art education that she would be proud. Also, that she would be
confident in me to follow in her footsteps.