I spent 4 days teaching workshops at the Spectrum Centre looking at how art has been used to document historical events. I referenced war artists such as Muirhead Bone who used charcoal and watercolor techniques to capture the energy of Battles such as the Somme. The centre had created a great exhibit of war artifacts and artwork. The children loved using charcoals and learning about shading/tone and fast illustration.
I had the pleasure of facilating an intergeneration art project at Kirkistown primary School with the primary 7 class and members of the wider community. We created a textile wall hanging based on the story Children of the Oregan Trail. It is such an excellent school with lovely pupils. We where extremely fortunate to have a guest speaker attend out launch. Indye-yah Prince gave a presentation to the school discussing her Native American Ancestry and her time spent in Canada learning the tradition of making moccasins. This was such a brilliant experience and I loved the final piece we created. It featured a printed background; hand stitched intergenerational hands, a river with fish and a Native American wearing leather patches and a feathered headdress. Many thanks to all those involved in the project.
I was recently involved in a really fun project ‘Spring Chickens Two’ which was directed by the super talented Christina Nelson. The production took place at the Ulster Museum.5 live shows, over 5 nights in 5 live venues celebrating innovative theatre work with older people. My role was to over see the live art installations. Each installation was a response to how older people feel they are portrayed within society. Each art piece was caged in to portray how older people feel they are ‘boxed in’ by the stereotypes, which exist of them within society. I was so impressed with the energy of the team and the sheer ability and talents of the participants. The wonderful Katie Richardson was the musical director and created a truly captivating sound to accompany the excellent production
http://www.myspace.com/katieandthecarnival
Will McConnell created an amazing film along with the group. His work was truly a masterpiece that had every one smiling from ear to ear.
http://www.bandwidthsessions.com/
