On the 16th October we held our first Art Workshop as part of the 3:1 West Dean Creative Walk Project where we set about using our documented nature research from our Creative Walk to inspire something artistic to showcase our love of the forest.
Chloe, who had travelled down from Birmingham, helped with preparations and welcomed everyone with tea and coffee.
After numerous bags and boxes were unloaded, we laid out an array of art materials for participants to use. Our leader and textile artist, Sara Rickard, discussed how her own work on paper or in fabric tends to build up layers and explained the process using several paper examples, demonstrating possible starting points.
Some participants arrived with canvases which they had already made a start on whilst others brought bags of paper ready to use. Some were clear about their ideas but wanted to extend and develop their work, whereas others came along with an open mind, hoping to be inspired.
By referring to written or visual sketchbook notes made on their Creative Walk and by returning to techniques like making rubbings or using a stick/feather to draw, participants were able to really personalise their artwork.
It was amazing how quickly everyone settled into ‘having a go’ and our professional artists spent their time encouraging and supporting participants.The session was both joyful and productive with many gorgeous pieces being created, each unique to the person and their experience on the walk.
After we have completed all the workshops, we’ll be showcasing everyone’s artwork in a celebratory exhibition at the West Dean Centre in December. Ultimately a travelling exhibition of work to promote Creative Walks will be developed from everyone’s contributions which will tour the Forest in 2024!
Canopy Creative Network 