Burgeoning young artists are learning how to paint like Van Gogh, create fantasy creatures and rainbow zebras at a series of classes at the Inverell Art Gallery this week.
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Taught by local artist Carolyn McCosker, the classes are a chance for 6-14-year-olds to make the most of their school holidays.
Ms McCosker valued introducing the youngsters to rich art traditions on Tuesday, as they sketched and painted their own versions of Van Gogh’s famous sunflower piece.
Ms McCosker valued introducing the youngsters to rich art traditions on Tuesday, as they sketched and painted their own versions of Van Gogh’s famous sunflower piece.
“It is a normal part of a child’s artistic development to want to paint and draw representationally, which is why they are taught the techniques and elements of art. Sadly, an unfortunate side effect of this need for ‘perfectionism’ in children’s development causes too many kids to lose heart and decide they are ‘no good’ at art,” she explained.
“This is often because their early attempts at drawing or painting don’t yield a perfect representation of what they set out to render.” She felt Van Gogh’s impressionistic style was ideal for young learners.
“When shown the work of a famous artist like Van Gogh, children can immediately see that his flowers, tress, skies, people and landscapes are not photo perfect replicas, but the artist’s impressions of what he saw, represented with paint.”
She showed them examples of the legendary painting, and talked to them about impressionism before they got to work on their own interpretations.
At home with a paintbrush, 13-year-old Jaide Tutt said she appreciated learning new artistic techniques.
Usually more comfortable creating portraits, 13-year-old Matt Ashenden enjoyed taking on a new challenge, while sibling Sebastian loved having the chance to draw.
Roy Tonkin felt he could still “do better”, while 7-year-old Kaylee South struggled at first, but soon felt she had a knack for painting.
Adrian Hatch said he always felt inspired to send his creativity “out into the world” when taking classes at the gallery, and loved grasping new “awesome” brush movements. Cathryn Carey simply felt painting was a pretty good way to spend her holidays.
The classes continued today with students set to paint or collage unicorns and dragons, while Thursday will focus on drawing and painting a ‘stunning’ rainbow zebra.
“This class challenged the children to extend themselves creatively beyond their comfort zones for two hours of solid art making. They were given short time spans and different materials in which to complete several drawings and paintings,” Ms McCosker said.
“Everyone produced amazing paintings and drawings and I hope some find a space on a wall at home.”
She encouraged locals to take a look at the Inverell Shire Library’s illustrated books on Van Gogh and his work.
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