Making a connection – connection makers

This paper examines the connections students make with the community of practicing Artists through the contribution that such practitioners make to teaching programs. The paper looks at the way that professional practice experience is embedded into the curriculum by comparing the teaching approach of fulltime practicing Artists who teach ‘occasionally’ to the approach of Full time Teachers. The paper will discuss the approach of two academic staff members in the South Australian School of Art, one the Studio Head of jewellery who combines full time teaching and administration with part time practice and in contrast, a staff member who makes her living from full time jewellery making and contributes to teaching in the South Australian School of Art through ‘sessional’ teaching. In addition to informal social interactions and mentoring opportunities, the outcomes for the students are a curriculum which brings the art community into the University and the elements of professional practice into the curriculum.