My Jennie Thomas Travelling Arts Scholarship Experience
Since receiving the Jennie Thomas Travelling Art Scholarship in 2009 I have been on a continuous journey of research and development, gathering global inspiration from many states of Australia, Japan, South East Asia and Canada.
I had studied art in an institutional context for over 8 years and receiving the Jennie Thomas Traveling Arts Scholarship gave me the means and impetus to explore first hand the connection between art, community, identity and place which I felt that I had the duty to explore. Throughout my studies my desire had been cemented to explore contexts where art and culture serve a purpose greater than that of aesthetic value, one where the genuine capacity to create positive social change is realised.
I've travelled widely since winning this scholarship. One of the most inspirational places I visited was Burma, now called Myanmar. It's place of great political upheaval and change. I had arranged to teach English in Mandalay while I explored the community, culture and met the people. But because of the 2010 elections, I was unable to get the required business visa. After many attempts, I finally went to the Thai/Burmese border at Mae Sot and taught at a Burmese arts based youth organisation. I learned so match about their country and culture, made life long friends and shared some of my culture and country with them
After my 3 month teaching stint was complete, I spent time in the hill country of the Shan State in Kyaukme and Hsipaw getting to know the generous and wonderful people there and learning of their community, culture and art. It was a wonderful experience.