Heidi Hackman
My name is Heidi Hackman and I have been teaching Visual Art classes for 5 years at Explorer Middle School. In this edition of Artist Spotlight I highlight a talented young Explorer Middle School student named Alexandra Johnson. Alexandra has shown a great interest in art and is one of many students at Explorer with a natural talent. As a teacher it’s always exciting to teach students who have a passion for art, and to help them further develop their natural talent. I have had the pleasure of teaching Alexandra Johnson for two years now, and I’ve seen her grow into an accomplished young artist.
Alexandra loves to draw portraits that show great expression or emotion, as you will notice in the examples. In the following artist interview, Alexandra answers a few questions about her artwork, and offers advise to fellow artists.
When did you start drawing, and who taught you?
I started drawing when I was about 1, but began drawing more challenging and advanced pieces when I enrolled in art at Explorer in 7th grade. My main focus is drawing portraits. Ms. Hackman has taught me most of what I know about art, including shade and shadow which are the most important aspects of my portraits.
What is your favorite drawing/painting that you have created?
My favorite piece would have to be the elderly couple because I feel that it is my most successful drawing so far.
What are some of your artistic goals for the 2015 year?
One of my goals is to begin drawing portraits in color.
What is your favorite medium?
I enjoy drawing with a regular pencil and paper the most, but I also like working with colored pencils although it is much more difficult.
What advice would you give to people that would like to start drawing?
Some advice that I would give to beginning artists is to pay attention to detail and take your time, do not rush.
