Staff Spotlight: Mr Matthew Bentham, Art Teacher

This month, Ruby C (Year 9) shone the spotlight on Mr Bentham, Senior School Art teacher, and discussed inspiration, creativity, and the benefits of an art education.

How long have you been teaching at Oxley?

This is my fifth year at Oxley College!

What inspired you to become an Art Teacher?

My grandfather was a watercolour artist in the UK and he mentored me when I was a boy.

What do you believe fosters creativity?

We need to be active in participating in pursuits that foster creativity. I definitely think that we can lose our ability to think in creative ways.

Which are your favourite artists?

Francisco Goya, Francis Bacon, Kara Walker, Takashi Murakami, Hayao Miyazaki, Flora Yuknovich, and Olafur Eliasson.

What is your favourite exhibition that you have attended?

So many standouts, but in 2000, I was able to spend a whole day in the Uffizi, Florence. It was an amazing but overwhelming experience.

In the area of Visual Arts what do you specialise in?

I think could be called a jack of all trades and a master of nothing! I am constantly learning new ways to be a better teacher.

What is your inspiration in the area of Visual Arts?

My family and my students are a source of inspiration.

Have to ever exhibited your own art works?

Yes, in group shows, but not individually – however, I am working towards something!

Why is Visual Arts such an important subject, especially for students at Oxley?

For so many reasons! It’s often overlooked and not always seen as valuable by all, but this subject instils an appreciation of other cultures, it builds a confident inner dialogue and strength to express your ideas, and it supports diverse voices.

What opportunities does Visual Arts subject offer Oxley students?

There are opportunities to thrive as a critical thinker and creative being. It always provides challenges and hope. Students perform extremely well at a senior level too!

Since Oxley is now a Round Square school, will there be any overseas trips to look at art around the world?

We certainly absorbed a lot of art during our recent overseas trip to Japan, and I hope that I am able to develop an equally fascinating programme for the next cohort.