Meet the Team: Tamara Rusnak, Senior School Visual Arts Teacher

February 3, 2023

Academics

GNS

What made you want to be part of the GNS community?

I was an art teacher at an IB school in the past and was eager to teach at an IB school again. I heard that GNS is a supportive and caring community and was keen to become involved. So far, it’s been great!

How did you choose teaching as the right path for you?

I’ve always loved working with young people. Before teaching, I worked at summer day camps and after-school programs. I’m energized by my students’ ideas. I love how they come up with ideas I could have never thought of.

What are some of your interests outside of school?

I make art on my own time and I love to work outside in my yard. I love film, food and travel too.

What do you like about living and working in Victoria?

I love the weather and being able to spend time outside all year.

What made you become an Art teacher?

Since childhood, I’ve enjoyed using my hands and mind to make things. I love seeing my students try different things, get excited about new materials and make something new.

What is/are your favourite artist(s)? Why?

I like work that has an interesting and beautiful materiality to it. I’m interested in the dynamic sculptural work by Phyllida Barlow as well as the organic ceramic forms created by Magdalene Odundo. Erik Olson is a painter from Calgary whose work impresses me.

What is the story behind the painting hanging at the hospital?

I made it after completing a long hike in the Purcell Mountains. The title of the work is Avalanche Path as it was inspired by walking through tall, dense bushes that were growing in areas that had been cleared by avalanches; my travel partner and I were wading through leaves. I wanted this work to evoke that same immersive feeling of being engulfed by greenery. My parents donated the painting to the hospital where my dad worked as Chief of Surgery for many years.

Thank you, Ms. Rusnak for becoming part of the GNS community and encouraging young artists to continue making art! If you would like to view this painting, it is currently displayed in the Royal Jubilee Hospital, in the corridor that faces the courtyard garden.