Good to see you!
Following our wonderful afternoon at the National Gallery on Saturday (thanks so much to Caroline Smith and the National Gallery artist educators for a fantastic afternoon), I travelled to Cambridge to meet with our patron Dame Magdalene Odundo DBE and NSEAD President Elect Marlene Wylie in the Fitzwilliam Museum.
Dr Kate Noble (Senior Research Associate at the Museum and NSEAD Council member) arranged for us to meet whilst the museum was closed in the gallery where Magdalene’s work has been on temporary display – ‘Magdalene Odundo in Cambridge’. It was a privilege to hear the conversation that flowed as Magdalene spoke about the importance of art education, the power of learning in museums and galleries, and the life-changing impact of teachers who have shaped her own journey to become one of the greatest ceramic artists working today.
This was another fantastic partnership between a great cultural organisation, and the people who make NSEAD so special. My thanks to the Fitzwilliam Museum, to Kate Noble, to Marlene – and most of all, to our wonderful patron, Dame Magdalene Odundo. Truly one of the greatest stars in the art firmament.
We have captured the conversation on film, which we will be sharing with you all. I know that it will inspire you, motivate you and rally you to even greater work. And I know that Magdalene’s words will resonate with so many:
'My message to our NSEAD members is this: Just keep doing what you do. Keep going. Please!'
As we reflect on another turbulent and challenging year, this is exactly the encouragement we need.
Time now to ensure that you get some time to unwind and recharge – ready for whatever the next academic year may bring.
Thanks to all of you for the energy and inspiration that you continue to bring to art education and our very special community.
Michele Gregson
General Secretary