Shawnee Tekii pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Whitecliffe College, graduating in 2019. “Embarking on this path was like opening a door to a world where my passion for art could truly flourish,” Shawnee reflects. Her journey from student to lecturer is a testament to herdedication and love for art.
“Teaching at the same programme where my journey began is profoundly rewarding,” Shawnee shares.
She currently teaches the Certificate in Fine Arts, guiding students through visual research and making methods. Her firsthand experience enriches her teaching, allowing her to impart practical wisdom that bridges theory with real-world application.
One of Shawnee’s proudest achievements during her studies was the profound growth in her personal art practice. “Starting from scratch and evolving to where I am now has been an incredible journey of self-discovery and fulfilment,” she states.
Her biggest piece of advice for aspiring artists is about the importance of documenting work professionally. “Creating is just one part of being an artist; presenting your work effectively is equally crucial,” Shawnee advises.
Shawnee is planning to expand her horizons with an artist residency in Tokyo, aiming to broaden her artistic network. “Whitecliffe College not only honed my skills but also prepared me to take on the world. For anyone passionate about art, this is where your journey should start.”