The Willem de Kooning Academy welcomes May Heek as the new course leader of the Bachelor in Fine Art and Design in Education (DBKV). With a rich background in fine arts, lens-based media, and a deep passion for education, May brings a fresh perspective to the program. We sat down with her to discuss her journey, vision, and what she hopes to achieve in her new role.
From Fine Art to Education
May’s journey in the arts began at ArtEZ in Arnhem, where she studied Fine Art. Her artistic practice led her to Amsterdam, where she ran a photography studio before pursuing a Master’s in Fine Art Media at the Slade UCL in London. It was in London that her interest in education grew. “Art education was much more embedded in the system there,” she explains. “It was more accessible through government initiatives, and teaching was viewed in a much more positive and engaging light.”
This experience shaped her perspective on art education. She became fascinated by the different pillars within the field and the ways in which artists contribute to education. “I encountered educators who were involved in inspiring, interdisciplinary projects,” she recalls. “It made me realize how vital art education is in fostering critical thinking and creativity.”
A Passion for Perception and Lens-Based Media
May’s expertise lies in phenomenology and lens-based media. “I’m intrigued by questions of perception, how we see what we see and how we can question that,” she says. Her background in photography and printmaking plays a crucial role in her approach to education. “Imagination is a powerful tool. If a student feels stuck in their thinking, imagination can open new doors for learning and self-discovery and awareness.”
Joining WdKA and the Path to Course Leadership
May initially joined WdKA as an external examiner for fourth-year DBKV students in the part-time program. “I was drawn to the academy’s research-driven approach,” she says. “It provided a different perspective on the field of art education.”
Her experience at WdKA, coupled with her teaching background at ArtEZ, led her to take on a teaching role at the academy. When the position of course leader became available, she was encouraged to apply. “I had been working at ArtEZ for seven years, and it felt like the right time to explore a new environment and contribute to another academy.”
A New Perspective on DBKV
Stepping into the role of course leader, May is embracing both the analytical and human aspects of the position. “It’s about stepping back, observing, and understanding the bigger picture,” she says. “But ultimately, the connection with the team and students is at the heart of everything.”
She is keen on fostering an environment where students graduate as passionate, adaptable educators ready to innovate within the educational system. “It’s not always easy to implement change, but it’s crucial to keep pushing for new ways of thinking and teaching.”
Shaping the Future of DBKV
In the coming period, May will focus on curriculum development and strengthening the program’s connection to the city. “We recently organised our monthly team meeting at Maarten Bel’s Belhuis in Rotterdam, it gives a good example of how mapping out our connection to the city can be incredibly enriching.”
May is eager to learn from the team and students. “I teach in the fourth year, which gives me insight into what students have absorbed throughout their education and where they want to go next. Teaching in the part-time program is particularly interesting because many students are already active in the field.”
Balancing Artistic Practice and Education
While her new role is demanding, May emphasizes the importance of staying connected to her artistic practice. “Right now, WdKA is my main focus, but I believe that working in the field provides valuable insights for teaching. Having a maker’s eye enhances visual analysis and helps in guiding students effectively.”
For May, art education is about more than just teaching, it’s about contributing to society. “Art is a way to connect, communicate, and critically engage with the world. As artist-educators, we play a role in shaping how students perceive and interact with their surroundings.”
With her keen analytical eye and passion for education, May Heek is set to bring an exciting new chapter to DBKV at WdKA. We look forward to seeing her vision unfold!
