Teacher Profile

Meet the

Teacher MS CLAUDIA FILIPPONE

“Value building relationships, be kind to yourself and embrace life openly with all your vulnerabilities.”

Since beginning teaching at Ave Maria College in 2005, Ms Claudia Filippone has seen great change, both throughout the College and the Art Industry. Before teaching and prior to her Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art at RMIT, Claudia studied my Associate Diploma in Visual Arts at NMIT (Melbourne Polytechnic) where she developed hands on experience in painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, jewellery making and black and white photography.

At the end of this five-year journey Claudia decided to complete a Diploma of Education at Melbourne University, which led her role at the College. In 2010, Claudia took some time away from teaching to focus on having a family. She re-joined the college community in 2015 and feels blessed to work with such dedicated and professional teachers. Claudia currently teaches Visual and Studio Art across Years 7 to 12.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

For as long as I can remember I have always been interested in drawing and painting from observation and personal experiences, which led to my interest and curiosity in experimenting with different mediums as a form of selfexpression. It wasn’t until my first teaching rounds that I realised how rewarding it was to use my expertise in art as a tool to connect with young people and inspire them to explore and develop an understanding of different historical and cultural contexts and to express the part of themselves that means to be human.

What changes have you seen over the years teaching within the Visual Arts Domain in girls’ education?

Throughout my years of teaching, I have witnessed the significant shift Visual Arts has made on building mental focus, reducing stress, increasing attention and strategic thinking in our youth. This has encouraged our students to value and develop their creativity, innovation, and critical thinking skills which open a plethora of opportunities in a global world that is progressive and always evolving.

What excites you about the future pathways for students?

With regards to the Visual Arts it encourages exploration of concepts, experimentation of materials and careful observation of visual communication of ideas and meaning in artworks which build empathy in how we relate to one another as human beings. It encourages students to be curious about life and society through ongoing opportunities for analysis, self-evaluation, and reflection.

Art appreciation improves our quality of life by broadening our awareness of all things from the seen, to feelings and experiences and the impact this has on individuals and communities. When we create art, we improve our ability to problem solve and open our minds to new and innovative ideas.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I have an innate desire to paint, and I am always seeking opportunities to connect with nature. I find peace in taking regular country drives and visiting neighbouring artist studios and galleries from Eltham to the Yarra Valley.

Best advice to your younger self

To value building relationships, be kind to yourself and embrace life openly with all your vulnerabilities, because in time life teaches you to become an expert at being human.