Exhibition shows unique way people see world through art
By Mary Dennehy
THE coffee dock in An Cosán in Jobstown has been given a colourful makeover following a 15-week art workshop that saw participants develop their own expressive style – and communicate the unique way in which they see the world through art.
On Thursday, May 31, The Starving Artist exhibition was launched, with an impressive body of work across a range of art mediums curated in the Tallaght education centre’s coffee dock.
Exhibitors at The Starving Artist exhibition in An Cosan
Tutor Siobhan Clancy facilitated the workshop, which introduced participants to charcoal drawing, tone shade, colour mixing, painting and other basic visual art techniques – which were used to create still-life studies, nature creations, collage and a collaborative panel art piece.
“The ethos of this course was not about learning how to draw or paint a perfect picture but instead discovering how each person would like to use the materials and what effects represent the unique way that they see the world,” Siobhan Clancy told The Echo.
“The result has been a marvellous exhibition showcasing truly distinctive styles ranging from a variety of bold outlines and careful shading, contrasting colours and subtle tonal ranges, heavy brushstrokes and blended forms, large-scale and small.
“The time and freedom afforded by two- and-a-half hours each week with no exam or deadline pressures meant that our workshops were experimental and great fun.”
Diversity
She added: “A key feature of the group on this course was the diversity of age, experience, culture and ability which brought fresh perspectives and different approaches to every task so there was lots of inspiration.
“Despite the hard work involved, in their feedback the participants described the course as relaxing, enjoyable and worthwhile.
“The impact of their experience is a testament to their willingness to challenge themselves in creative ways, including the creation of a wonderful large still-life painting consisting of nine panels, each painted by a different person and combining all the skills learned from classical, modern and contemporary art techniques.”
Visitors to the exhibition have to date described the collaborative art display as “amazing”, “beautiful” and “inspirational”.
Certificates were awarded to all participants by Elaine Vince O’Hara from the Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board, which funded the course.
The Starving Artist exhibition is open to the public.
