OPTION A

• ARTIST TALK AND HANDS-ON EXERCISES

• STRUCTURED TO FIT INTO TWO DOUBLE PERIODS (approx 70 MIN EACH)

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This workshop has two components that introduce students to the inner workings of an art practice and hands-on exercises that help to develop new ideas, emphasise the importance of process, and work towards resolved works. The point of the workshop is to expand the students’ understanding of creative problem solving and how it can be applied to visual art and beyond. They are encouraged throughout to think about how they can apply the principles of the workshop to their work.

 

PART 1 (first double period)

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This part of the workshop covers:

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• An artist talk: What does a visual artist actually do?

• Process and experimentation in an art practice: following the path of an art practice from the point of creating artwork to an exhibition.

• Failures and experimental work: the importance of making mistakes, learning, and finding the path through the mess.

• The presentation also includes examples and processes of contemporary artists.

• Hands-on exercises: Students are guided through some short practical tasks that focus on how to find inspiration and develop new ideas.

 

PART 2 (second double period)

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This part of the workshop covers:

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• Making small experimental sculptures with recycled materials. Working with unusual materials help students step out of a comfort zone.

• A change in direction: transform what they have created into a 2D form(drawing or painting)

• A change in direction: next they transform work to a digital format like video, photography, or stop-motion animation. Encouraged to be experimental.

• Time is limited, and students can’t overthink the process. They normally are surprised at what they can achieve in a short timeframe but also at the interesting work they can produce.

 

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OPTION B

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• FULL DAY PRACTICAL WORKSHOP

• STRUCTURED AS AN INCURSION DURING SCHOOL HOURS

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This is an example of a full-day workshop, and it can be restructured to accommodate your needs and time. The aim of this workshop is to expand the students’ idea of what making art can be. They often limit themselves to work with traditional methods and materials. In this workshop, they are encouraged to ‘loosen-up’ how they approach and make their work. As they start to experiment, students re-discover the enjoyment of making art without any set end result in mind. The workshop was divided into 3 sessions and account for breaks in-between (this is adjustable according to school timetable or group needs).

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SESSION 1

Group work:

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• Each group is given a topic that they can interpret in any way.

• They have limited time to create a 3D or 2D form using only a limited material, like cardboard boxes and packaging tape.

• They are encouraged to work together and divide the work among the group members. Combining, for example, Year 11 and 12 students is a great opportunity for them to learn from each other.

• The session starts with a brief of what they are required to do and some examples of contemporary artists that use similar materials.

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SESSION 2

Demonstration and set-up for Session 3

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• Each student is required to make their painting or drawing implement from alternative materials.

• The technique is demonstrated, as well as how to use the painting implements to draw and paint.

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SESSION 3

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• Students are encouraged to make as many experimental pieces as possible.

• They are also requested to think about resolving what they have made or how the techniques can be used in conjunction with how they usually work in art class.