Kerry Simpson

I am a retired teacher, and much of my life has been shaped by education, creativity and finding a way through unexpected changes.

Art has always been part of my life. I enjoyed art lessons at school and was fortunate to have two very good teachers, but at the time it was not a matriculation subject, so I dropped it after intermediate level. Even so, I have always enjoyed drawing and, to a lesser extent, painting. It has been my go-to in difficult times, and something I return to in good times when I have the opportunity.

My career began with the NSW Education Department before I studied Arts at the University of Sydney and later completed a Diploma in Education by correspondence through the University of New England. I went on to teach for 34 years, including high school English and History, remedial teaching, distance education and literacy and numeracy education at TAFE Queensland. I particularly enjoyed working with adults and at-risk younger students, and some of the greatest highlights were seeing people blossom and find a career path.

I also spent time in mental health advocacy and addiction-related work, which gave me greater insight into the delivery of services and the difficulties faced by consumers. It also gave me a voice.

I had always imagined returning to painting and drawing when I retired. Although I had attended workshops and used art in my teaching, I had never truly made it a priority. I began to regret that, and studying Visual Arts at CQUniversity offered the opportunity I had been hoping for. After completing a Certificate III in Visual Arts, I have continued my studies through the Diploma of Visual Arts.

What I have enjoyed most about studying at CQU is the encouraging attitude of the teachers and the presentation of ideas that are new and refreshing. The course has also provided me with a needed discipline. At the moment, I am especially drawn to charcoal drawing, graphite and watercolour.

My advice to others is simple: go for any opportunity to realise a dream, no matter what your age is. There is a way around obstacles, and sometimes obstacles can prove to be blessings in disguise.