Art in Retirement

Learn simple, fun craft techniques, gain skills and gain confidence using a range of materials. You will be encouraged to develop a personal style in a friendly environment. Beginners are particularly welcome.

Any person over 60 who is wants to learn to draw and paint and who is interested in learning to 'make things'. Don't worry if you don't have good eyesight or a steady hand or if you have any other physical or learning difficulties - you will be included in all activities and extra help can be given if necessary. Just have a word with your tutor on the first day of term.

Structure:

Each term we will experiment with different techniques in drawing, painting, or collage. We will also be exploring different crafts, both traditional and new. A typical term might include drawing, painting, decoupage, sewing felt accessories, jewellery making and working with glass or metal. We will try to design the course according to the interests of the majority of the students and you will be encouraged to work on your own projects, with help and/or advise if you need it.

Aims:

To initiate and establish a productive, friendly and fun art and craft activity group

To develop confidence when discussing your own work and that of others.

To enable and promote confidence in making items and visual expression

To promote confidence when using different materials and techniques

To encourage, where appropriate, the development of individual projects

Topics:

Topics include how to create and understand the importance of colour, tone, composition, contrast and texture in 2D and 3D image-making.

Using marks, shape, tone and colour in various ways.

Using various materials to make 2D and 3D images and objects

Using different materials and techniques

Discussing, appreciating and learning from your own and others' work

Gaining confidence in developing your individual style and subject matter

Discussing and collaborating with the group, and learning and practicing the

skills of constructive self-critique