At 22 years old, life’s journey has just begun for artist and sculptor, Amanda Hailey. Growing up in Southport, N.C. has greatly influenced her work’s direction and views as an artist and student of life. It was in this seaside town, where countless artists work and live, that she was inspired to create. Woodblock and lino printing, paints and clay were some of the tools she explored early on, thanks to so many who freely shared their knowledge.
In 2004, local potter Michelle Spencer educated Amanda in the art of spinning clay and glazing. Always encouraged and supported by her parents and teachers, she was provided an environment where creativity and learning were valued and nurtured. In these surroundings, Amanda grew to realize the importance of arts in education. This is a cause she strongly believes in and promotes through, ”Arts in Action”, a collection of local artists who work to make a difference in the lives of others.
After graduating from high school in 2004, Amanda attended Barton College but returned to Southport often to work in the family’s clay studio. In the summer of 2005, she was offered the opportunity to assist in teaching a children’s pottery course at Franklin Square Gallery Studios. During these classes, she discovered not only a love for hand building with clay but also a love for teaching children to create.
Amanda has since continued to study her craft and looks forward to more opportunities to instruct children in visual arts. In 2008 she was awarded a grant by the Brunswick Arts Council enabling her to build a contemporary work portfolio. She hopes that this innovative series will be an instrument for understanding the importance of creative thinking and art in childhood education. Currently Amanda is collaborating with Big Bear Productions to develop a documentary short relating to the arts and artists who live in small town U.S.A.
Amanda is also Ovation TV's winner for the Best of 2008 My Art competition and will be promoted through their website all of 2009....
http://community.ovationtv.com/ahailey22 http://www.myspace.com/amandahaileysculpture
