After years of caring for older members of her family and making handmade journals, Michelle Mooney felt her creative spark had started to fade. Michelle decided it was time to do something positive and inspiring for herself. Having driven past The Learning Connexion many times and wondered what it would be like to study there, Michelle took the leap.
We chatted with Michelle about her journey so far into TLC’s Certificate in Creativity.
Kia Ora Michelle. Please tell us a little about yourself and what life looked like before you started studying at TLC.
Prior to starting at TLC I had been a support person for elder members of my family. And had been creating handmade journals for some years. My creative mojo had left and I was in need of a refresh.
What made you decide to study at TLC?
After my fathers passing I needed to direct myself to something positive and inspiring that I hoped would help me to recharge. I was also excited to try new art mediums with all the wonderful tools that TLC has.
Was there a particular moment or experience that made you think, “Now is the time”?
I have always wanted to pursue art and creativity and had been very aware of TLC and hoped that one day I would be able to study here.
Having driven past the front gate many times and wished I could drive in. I took the leap and did a tour and signed up and started all within 4 days!
Was there anything about TLC’s approach to creativity that appealed to you?
The opportunity to explore and be creative in a safe and supported environment. I’m not sure I really knew what I was doing, or going to be doing, but it has been wonderful!
Did you have any concerns about returning to study after being away from formal education?
As an older student it was too long ago to remember. My concerns were just general nervousness about a new place and new people, but I have enjoyed it.
As the oldest student in my classes I have loved meeting new people at different stages of their lives.
What creative practices have you discovered or enjoyed most during your time at TLC?
The opportunity to explore Installations and Landscape art, were surprising to me. I have been more inspired than I ever imagined.
I have realised how much more I want to learn and explore with everything I make.
Is there something you can do now that you never thought you would be able to do before starting Level 4?
Dream bigger. Previously my work was very much around making journals and now I want to explore everything!
I am working on silencing the inner critic and hope that as I create more work I will become the boss and fire the critic.
What do you enjoy most about being onsite at TLC?
Interaction with creative people… it is magic! The staff are very supportive and encouraging.
Can you describe the opportunities available to you at TLC.
Many and varied. Looking forward to ceramics, jewellery, sculpture, mixed media and more.
Is there a particular tutor, class, project or experience that has really stood out for you?
I have been very inspired by the CK talks with guest speakers on Tuesday mornings. Also the gel plate tutorial with Hamish and the Matariki flag making with Marie. So many wonderful moments of inspiration. The opportunity to explore all the different mediums, and techniques with a home base and supportive tutor was the perfect place for me to begin my creative journey.
I really enjoyed the art history included with Karla, as this has introduced me to artists and styles that I have found so inspiring.
Level 4 is an interesting and supportive place to start especially if you are not sure where you want to go.
Have you been involved in any exhibitions or events at TLC?
I have just participated in my first ever exhibition which was scary but I knew I needed to push myself to do it! ‘The Last 3 of Us presents Rough Cuts’ which was curated and installed in TLC’s LAB Gallery by myself and two other Level 4 students.
What has studying at TLC given you beyond the creative skills themselves?
Recharge for me creatively and emotionally. I was very burnt out prior to starting at TLC and have been able to survive and am on my way to thriving.
What are you hoping to explore next in your creative journey?
Continue to broaden my creative opportunities with further study. Increase the artistic inspiration with creative people and galleries and experiences, which enrich my life.
If someone was considering studying but wondering whether they should consider a career change, or feeling they are too old or not creative enough, what would you say to them?
Do It! If you think it may be too late, it’s not. Do it now. Do it today. Take the leap… TLC is a safe place to land.
What does creativity mean to you now, compared with before you started at TLC?
Creativity is bigger, it is a part of everything that you allow it to be. It will open your eyes to more possibilities and opportunities if you let it.
If you could go back to yourself on your first day at TLC, what would you tell yourself?
It is going to be wonderful!
What would you say to someone who is considering studying at TLC?
Be brave… do it!
To find out more about enrolling in our Certificate in Creativity Level 4 contact us at 0800 278 769 or email info@tlc.ac.nz
