Monday, May 22, 2023

Art Times at The Studio

Welcome to the second Art Times for The studio. 
The focus of this termly news letter is to share something of the art we have been creating during the term, as well as highlighting interesting exhibitions and art ideas for us all to ponder and enjoy. 
I begin at the beginning with a little of the story behind this term sart projects. For those who may not yet know, I run art classes for children and teens as well as a vibey fun adult class. The art classes for children are mixed ages. last year I started a wonderful class for slightly younger children which happens on Tuesdays. This term we have been busy with a beautiful , rather large work of ourselves. Each child has been working on their own body. Honestly, the delightful end product can not explain the deeply motivated and dedicated work these children have engaged in. We really sucked the life out of art here. I love these works. 

Some of the children had an opportunity to focus some time on drawing from a still life. while others continued their works of the Chameleon. These began as drawings and have ended with these characters of note. Most of the work we do at The Studio has some sort of picture of object that gives inspiration and allows children to practice their observation skills. The picture or object gives a rich language for children to launch themsleves off of when they are ready to do so and as they grow in confidence. 



Our homeschool monthly workshop created these wonderful shoes out of paper and card. 
A labour of love and care and lots of problem solving. Art is often about problem solving. I encourage chidren to try and figure out a way to answer their questions when a problem arises. The aim is not to create a "perfect" work each time but for children to learn and grow and challenge themselves. 


We are busy with a new project after completing last terms amazing works. These are based on the Basotho Blanket design of the people of Lesotho.  Please check out this link for more on these works of colour and delight. 


Maggie Laubser at The Norval

last week I visited the Maggie Laubser exhibition at The Norval in Tokai. Entrance is free for children. It is a wonderful timeline , art walk through some of her work from the beginning of her art journey until its end. In the painting below, we can see her very careful expression of a woman which in itself was revolutionary for the times. It is a beautiful and honest painting and I love her use of colour which dates the work and sets it well in the times. 

This exhibition is suitable for children and I recommend a visit. Alongside this exhibition is one by artist Bernie Searle. For adults, this is a fantastic opportunity to see Bernies work. She is a video and photographic artist of world status and , if you can set aside some time, this is thought provoking indeed. 
Holiday news - During the longer June/July break I will be running some art workshops. 
These will take place on - 27th and 28th June. 

Details to follow. 
I also hope to take some children to an art exhibition . Maggie Laubser is on the list as well as another visit to The National Gallery for those who missed it. :)

Please do not hestiate to contact Caren.Falconer - art@carensartstudio.co.za