Writes Aman K.
For the fourth instalment of my series exploring the diverse perspectives within our school, I sat down with Mr Fields. We moved away from the typical academic discourse to discuss something more sensory: the “smell of the oil”. As you will notice, the format of this piece shows the question asked to Mr Fields, followed by my account of his responses.
When did you find your love for art, and how has your “taste” changed since then?
Mr Fields’ appreciation for art is deeply rooted in the process of making, a passion he discovered through the world of teaching. He describes the privilege of “dropping into the Art Department” to soak in the atmosphere, noting that the most impactful works are often those that evolve from raw research into a final drawing. “I love a piece of art where you can still smell the oil,” he remarks, emphasizing a preference for the visceral over the polished.
What is your favourite art piece and why?
When asked for a personal favourite, he points not to a canvas, but to the Royal Festival Hall on London’s South Bank. For him, the building is a masterclass in 1960s British engineering and artistry—a “portrayal of artistic power” that radiates a shifting, architectural warmth.
If you had to pick one piece of art that you think all students should see, what would it be and why?
However, do not expect a curated reading list from him. When asked what single piece every student should see, Mr Fields hesitated, viewing such a recommendation as almost “self-centred.” Instead, he poses a challenge to the student body: “Find a piece of art that speaks out to you; go to a museum.”
Do you now or have you ever produced art in any form?
Despite his keen eye, Mr Fields does not consider himself an artist. He recalls a rare foray into the medium—an oil pastel piece created under a friend’s persuasion. Even then, he found a quiet contentment in the technicality of the work, specifically remembering the satisfaction of “how he did the lines.”
How do you think we can encourage students who may not be as naturally talented at art to still enjoy and benefit from creativity?
For students at Merchant Taylors’ who may feel they lack “natural” talent, Mr Fields offers a reassuring perspective. He compares the creative process to a singer stepping onto a stage; while the initial experience is nerve-wracking, it is ultimately a path to “finding your voice” and “finding courage.”
What do you think makes Art valuable?
Perhaps his most profound shift in perspective is his definition of value. Having moved past a “naive” childhood view that art was simply about the accuracy of a copy, he now views the canvas as an invitation. “The pressure to make it ‘look like,’ compared to the invitation to put down how you feel,” he concludes, “that is a completely different experience.”
