Art Painting Workshops

University College School (UCS) Art department and students from the 6th form at the London Academy of Excellence (LAE) had the opportunity to take part in a laid-back painting workshop. The workshop, focused on London as its theme, drew inspiration from Susan Sontag's "On Photography" and John Berger's "Ways of Seeing."

Aims

Guided by the ideas of Sontag and Berger, students were prompted to look at London's iconic elements with a critical eye, going beyond the surface to uncover deeper layers of meaning. This encouraged them to not only observe but to ponder how they perceived the various aspects of the city.

Background

A key aspect of the workshop was the exploration of new artistic techniques. Putting a spotlight on tonality, students experimented with underpainting and glazing. These techniques allowed them to create layers, giving their artworks depth and dimension. The underpainting provided a base, and layers of glazing were added to achieve a beautiful interplay of light and shadow.

 

As students delved into these techniques, the workshop became a space for both learning and creative expression. The blending of theoretical insights from Sontag and Berger with hands-on exploration of London's visual elements elevated the artistic process. It became an environment where students not only improved their technical skills but also gained a greater appreciation for the cultural and historical significance embedded in the cityscape.

 

Impact

 The visit to UCS became a source of inspiration for artistic growth, encouraging the next generation of painters to navigate the balance between theory and practice. By connecting the intellectual concepts of Sontag and Berger with the practical experience of creating art, the workshop at UCS highlighted the transformative power of education and exploration in the world of visual arts.

Pupil Involvement

17-18 years

Frequency

Single event