Meet Jacqueline!

What’s your educational background?
B.A. University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario.
Montessori Diploma, A.M.I Primary ages 3-6, Foundation for Montessori Education, Toronto, Ontario.
Montessori Diploma, Lower Elementary ages 6-9, Toronto Montessori Institute, Toronto, Ontario.

How did you first hear about 4Cats?
We had our oldest daughter’s fifth birthday party at 4Cats. A Jackson Pollock inspired Paint Splatter Party! My daughters got so messy, I wondered how I would get them in the car in that condition! But, what stood out more than being covered in paint, were their enormous smiles and wide eyes. They had just experienced the best adventure of their lives!

Why 4Cats?
I am a Montessori Teacher. Along with the incredible Montessori Materials and philosophy, Montessori teaches the children a love and appreciation of art and for those who brought art and beauty to people around the world. Montessori shows the children how art withstood the test of time and how art inspires through the ages. 4Cats brings all of that to the children in a fun, dynamic and very real way. There is a very close kinship with the Montessori Method and the 4Cats Method of teaching children.

What is your favourite colour?
Bright Red. It’s bold and beautiful.

Favourite art quote?
“The human hand allows the mind to reveal itself” ~Maria Montessori

Who is your favourite artist and why?
Edgar Degas. His paintings of people in their everyday lives or during performance speak to me. I see movement in them and a story. They make me ask questions and think about the people.

What is your favourite art medium, and why?
Paper Mache because it is layered and messy! Anyone can do paper mache and the transformation that takes place from start to finished product is incredible.

So…any other interesting facts we should know about you?
I have three wonderful inspirations and on-going projects running around my house … my children; Sophie, Danielle and Jackson! And an incredible partner in life, my husband John!

Meet Curator Alison Flagg!

What’s your background?
I have a Diploma in Visual Arts from Camosun College in Victoria B.C and continued taking part-time classes at the Victoria School of Art and Orange Frog Studios in Mill Bay. I love to practice using different mediums and am currently making lino cut prints with my friend.

How did you first hear about 4Cats?
I walked by a 4Cats Arts studio on my way to the bus stop. All of the colourful paintings caught my attention and I wanted to learn more!

Why 4Cats?
4Cats is the perfect balance of work and play; I can explore what I love and share it with enthusiastic young artists!

What is your favourite colour and why?
I love green because it is a calming and peaceful colour and it reminds me of Galiano Island where I grew up.

Who is your favourite artist and why?
Norman Rockwell is one of my favorite artists! His paintings have so much character and always make me smile, think of home and inspire me to draw, draw, draw!

What is your favourite art medium, and why?
I love to draw with pencil and charcoal because I can change my picture constantly with an eraser and create depth by simply smudging!

So…any other interesting facts we should know about you?
I Love to Illustrate funny characters and draw people! I once participated in a “draw-athon”, which lasted for 24 hours! We drew people and objects aaaall day long at an Art school in Victoria. SO fun!