Amy Leahy Clark ’83 is determined to provide the same amazing experience of art class that she had as a Visitation student.
She vividly recalls her early years in the second-floor art suite, where she was taught by Sister Jane de Chantal and Diana Shandorf. Now a working artist and gallery operator in St. Paul – along with being a wife and mother of two – Amy is back in the same classroom as the Upper School studio art teacher. She’s not merely instructing in art; she’s infusing each lesson in Salesian Spirituality and the richness of an all-girls community.
“The sisterhood of Visitation has made me who I am today, and I am so glad I’m here to be a part of the journey of the next generation of Visitation artists and scholars,” Amy said. “‘Be who you are and be that well’ is a foundation in my life and truly makes a difference in guiding the girls on their journeys. I love the beauty and grace of Salesian Spirituality, and the teachings embrace the essence of each individual. I find strength and talent in each student and guide them to becoming and creating the best works that are possible.”
Living out Salesian Spirituality means fostering a close-knit community among the students. “We keep a sense of family in our classroom and let all know the value of each individual’s presence and talents,” Amy said.
It also means extending creative latitude to cultivate liberty of spirit. “When they create a painting or work of art, I allow them to choose what the subject will be with limited scaffolding outlining the rubric of the completed work,” she added. “I believe choice matters in creation, and the student artist’s work will reflect this freedom and there will be more ownership in the finished work. A sense of pride is instilled in the creator when their voice is heard in the process, and the learning process is exciting when they’re leading the way and not just following.”
Soothing the Soul
In many ways, art is an antidote to the pressures of adolescence. “Art makes them slow down and lean into the senses and turn off all the outside distractions,” Amy said. “I see girls who, through art, become settled and confident in their own presence. Instead of having to be busy and talking, they find joy in quiet and creation. This was my experience through Sister Jane and her guidance, and I want the same for my students.”
She’s doing exactly that, according to her students, who are quick to compliment their new art teacher.
“Ms. Clark has such a welcoming and joyful presence,” said Mallory O’Connell, who will be a sophomore this fall. “She has a way of making anyone comfortable – to the extent of her feeling like family. She even made us a couch in her room so we had a place to sit and hang out. She helps us grow in so many ways.”
Elizabeth Landsem, who is also beginning her sophomore year this fall, echoed that praise. “Her room is such a safe place,” she said. “No matter what time of day you walk in, there are people gathered, enjoying each other’s company and wanting to simply be in the presence of Ms. Clark. Some days you’ll see girls who have never taken an art class but still come to enjoy the liveliness of her classroom.”
Elizabeth recognizes that her instruction goes far deeper than most art teachers. “She takes the time to connect with each of her students and never fails to lend a helping hand to anyone who walks through her door. Her values have imprinted on me, helping shape me into a better person. She truly lives by the virtues of simplicity and gentle strength.”
For her part, Amy said she’s grateful to witness the gifts unfolding in her classroom. “Each day is full of endless possibilities of creativity and friendship amongst all who visit and stay awhile.”
Art and entrepreneurship
Connecting art to social issues comes naturally to the girls, Amy said. “They are aware, listening, absorbing and formulating their opinions every minute. I’m proud that they are not passive observers but feel compelled to speak and act to solve problems. I just returned from our VISTORY service trip in DC, and it was so amazing to see the passion the girls felt for helping and serving those less fortunate.”
Meanwhile, she’s quick to share real-world lessons with her students, offering examples from her experience running a community gallery, Argyle Zebra Gallery. “They know when I’m hanging a show, when we’ve had a great opening – and some stop by on the weekends to see the art and to just be a part of the art community. They know it’s a lot of work, but they see what joy it brings me. I want them to see that art is a viable choice of career and that they can take their talents into a marketable field.”
Those discussions intrigue the students. “Her knowledge on business and art in the real world is so fascinating, and it makes her all the cooler,” Elizabeth said.
“She’s a great role model,” Mallory added. “We’ve seen the work and creativity she puts into her studio and it inspires us to push further.”
This story first appeared in Summer 2023 Vision.