Fine Arts Newsletter
Winter Edition 2014
FACULTY FEATURE: Melanie Gorsline - Middle School Art Teacher
Melanie Gorsline has spent most of her life at Collegiate. A “lifer”, she is a member of the class of 1974. She earned her BA in Art History/Studio Art from Salem College in Winston Salem, NC, as well as her teaching certificate for grades K-12 in the spring of 1978. That very same fall she began work at Collegiate teaching art to girls in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades as well as Art History and Photography to 12th grade girls. She also acted as a 7th grade girls’ advisor for many years. Once Collegiate changed from the Lower School, Girls’ School, Boys’ School setup to the current format, she settled into the Middle School where she teaches both girls and boys. This semester she has 5th grade girls, 7thgrade coed, and 8th grade coed (though primarily boys) art classes. Herself a printmaker, Melanie brings a real passion for art and the creative process to all of her classes. She works to create a safe, non stressful space and time where her students can “think outside the box” in their work as well as gain an appreciation and understanding of many types of art. By giving her students the tools and the vocabulary, she encourages them to try a variety of mediums and to express themselves in a variety of creative ways. Her curriculum begins with the basics ... the Five Elements of Design ... Line, Shape, Color, Space and Texture .... and then refines and expands on these elements. Her students will progress from tile mosaics in 5th grade to more realistic drawings and projects, including silk screening by the 8th grade. Her teaching style is more that of a coach, where she encourages each student to do his or her best, to work together efficiently in the space so that everyone can work to their best. Along with teaching art techniques Melanie teaches life long skills such as problem solving and working both collaboratively and individually. Middle School art is about being creative and discovering one’s hidden artistic talents in a fun and postive experience. She provides an oportunity for students to be themselves, take risks, and discover endless possibilities about their own creativity in non-stressful environment. No two days are the same, and she wouldn’t have it any other way! Outside of the classroom, Melanie continues to hone her printmaking skills, creating original silkscreen works which she uses for Christmas cards every year. She is also the Middle School Holiday Coordinator. The Holiday traditions are so important to her as they are the common thread that binds Collegiate’s past generations with the present and future Cougars. She is an avid supporter, not only of the arts, but also of Collegiate athletics, rarely missing a game for one of her four nephews over the years. She’s grateful to be working at the school that has been her home for most of her life “It’s Hectic. It’s Fun. It’s Home”.