Still life workshop: using objects and collage as a jumping off point for creating imaginative and surreal drawings and paintings.
Why do some objects get treasured while others are discarded?
We live our lives surrounded by objects large and small. Some of these items come to represent something to us and we hold on to them, arrange them and care for them. Still life can be a playful route into exploring the things we care about (and the things we don’t). By arranging objects within a scene we can ask questions, build narrative or delve into our own memories.
This workshop explores the possibilities of still life as a jumping off point for memory and the imagination. Using framing devices such as boxes and shelves, the participants will arrange still lives containing found objects, as well as those brought from home. We will consider the incorporation of collaged elements in order to create a set which sits somewhere between the real and the imagined.
The arranged still lifes will be used as the basis for a series of observational drawing exercises varying in length from 5 - 40 mins, where we will aim to explore narrative and mood using cropping, colour, tone and lighting.
Drawing materials, paper for collage and various props will be provided. There will also be a collection of art books on side for inspiration!
As part of this session, participants are encouraged to bring along one or two objects from home - no bigger than hand sized - which can be incorporated into their still life.
(Note: all objects are brought at the person’s own risk and must be taken away at the end of the session).
This workshop is a part of the Press the Buzzer to Enter exhibition - see details below.
Artists’ Bio:
Joanna Boyle and Helen Eger met on Turps Off Site Programme 25-26 and discovered similarities between their work which considers space, memory, objects and storytelling. Both artists have worked in design and illustration, coming to painting to explore how objects can release personal memories and associations.
Contact: If you have any questions regarding this workshop, please email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Venue: The Chapel at St Margaret’s House, 21 Old Ford Road — E2 9PL
Access: We are working to make our Grade II listed building more accessible, but it will take some time. Please note that entry to the Chapel is not step-free. If you require access support (including our portable ramps) and/or access to an accessible toilet, please contact us on 020 8980 2092 or email programming@stmargaretshouse.org.uk so we can arrange this for you.
Dates & Times:
Opening Event: Friday 9th October, 6.30-8.30pm
Workshop: Saturday 10th October, 2-4pm
Exhibition: Saturday 10th - Sunday 11th October, 10am-4pm
Workshop Tickets: £8