Hello there! Welcome to Art Classes 2U

I thought I should introduce myself 😊 My name is Shay Downer and this is what I'm passionate about:

Art Therapy

I am an artist deeply committed to the transformative power of art. My academic journey led me to pursue a Master's in Therapeutic Arts Practice at MIECAT, commencing in 2022. This qualification holds full accreditation from TEQSA and recognition from ANZACATA.

At present, my primary focus is on delivering tailored private art lessons to students who require additional learning support funded by NDIS. These personalised sessions serve as a platform for honing creative artistry, refining fine motor skills, nurturing effective communication, and exploring diverse avenues of self-expression. Moreover, these experiences foster self-confidence, self-awareness, and contribute significantly to anxiety reduction.

Teaching

My venture into art education began in 2016 when I embarked on teaching art within the Sunbury community. This endeavor has been a privilege, allowing me to witness the remarkable growth of emerging artists as they evolve into confident creators, eventually exhibiting their own works. Equally astounding is the ability of art to foster community engagement and alleviate mental health challenges. My commitment lies in creating an environment where students feel safe and included, empowering them to delve deep into their creative potential. Testimonials from my exceptional students speak to the positive impact of my teaching approach.

Please see my current classes here

Artistic Journey & Achievements

My artistic journey commenced in the late 1990s as an illustrator, gradually evolving into the creation of commissioned portraits over two decades. However, it was a transformative moment in 2013 when I engaged in comprehensive training under the tutelage of renowned American artist David Kassan. This experience ignited the confidence needed to wholeheartedly pursue my artistic practice.

Since that pivotal juncture, my creative journey has been marked by prolific accomplishments, including two solo exhibitions and participation in over 25 group exhibitions. I've achieved recognition as a finalist in numerous esteemed art competitions and have been honoured with several grants to advance and diversify my artistic repertoire. My skills extend across multiple mediums, encompassing graphite, charcoal, pastels, acrylics, and oil paints.

See more at www.shaydowner.com.

I invite you to connect with me, and together, we can explore the boundless realms of creativity and self-expression. Please subscribe to my email list at the bottom of the page or contact me directly. I look forward to working with you.