Celebrating Tommy

I used to work at a school brimming with energy, dedication, events, and wild wonderful curriculum and I met up with some of its amazing staff yesterday. It was a bittersweet occasion because a longtime teacher was moving on to another position and would be leaving behind the deep relationships that come from twelve years of common effort to bring out the best in their students.

There was so much I wanted to convey in this sketch. First of all, the modesty and emotion of an incredible teacher was central to the sketch and I tried to emphasize it with his facial expression, crossed arms and posture facing off into a new direction. Secondly, I wanted to show the warm wishes, good-natured ribbing, and zest that distinguish this group. I used repeating heads, simple smiles and clapping hands to show the proud sendoff and good will of the staff.

There are so many magnificent teachers and staff members working so hard to help students excel. As the new school year starts I wish all students the opportunity to work with teachers like Tommy and his colleagues.

This is a pencil and watercolor sketch