Memories of transformative teacher remind why the arts matter

By Priscilla Roberts

Memories of CQUniversity academic and colleague Emeritus Professor Celeste Lawson’s passion for the arts and education flooded the auditorium at last week’s inaugural Celeste Lawson Lecture.

The annual lecture was established to honour Celeste who passed suddenly in 2023.

“Celeste is fondly remembered for her inclusion, leadership and a teaching philosophy that encouraged student engagement and deep learning,” said CQUniversity’s Dean of Education and the Arts Professor Stephen Dobson.

“Celeste believed in the transformative power of education and the importance of studying the Arts and Humanities in order to better understand our changing world, and this annual lecture drew on these themes in her honour.” 

Celeste’s portrait along with her bright pink scarf took pride of place during the special event where her love of colour, art, learning and people was overwhelmingly evident.

The 2024 lecture was delivered by Dr Jan Cattoni, who gave a fitting tribute to the loved and respected academic, who inspired many in creative endeavours and love of lifelong learning.

Titled Why the Arts Matter in the 21st Century, the lecture explored the importance of the Arts in today’s world and showcased Dr Cattoni’s current film project where she has worked with children in hospital to create virtual worlds by tapping into their fantasy worlds. The importance of science talking with and through art was a connecting thread.

“Dr Cattoni is a most brilliant storyteller who shares the life experience of children, parents, health professionals and researchers who work together creating virtual worlds to live in and to manage health challenges,” explained Professor Dobson.

CQUniversity art teachers Pat Connor and Carmen Gray created a unique celebratory certificate of acknowledgement for Dr Cattoni which contained elements from Celeste’s portfolio of art. 

The 2024 lecture was the first event for the annual lecture series.

“We have established the memorial lecture to recognise the influence of Emeritus Professor Celeste Lawson, and we will build on this in coming years with new annual lectures.”