a is for...porcupine

More quick doodlz.

A colleague has a child in their class who is a very reluctant writer but loves to draw (and for their age, is very able). I've suggested that they try the approach of using letters to begin drawings. In that way, the child will be writing without really thinking about it. The child could try other letters as starting points. I've suggested that they develop it by adding simple captions, speech/thought bubbles to the drawings. The child could then be encouraged to create storyboards with simple narratives.

Let's see how it goes.

a is for...tennis

Before the music school run found time for a few doodlz;

a is for...frog

1st full week back in school has involved a lot of paperwork! Only had time for brief snatches of creativity.

A quick doodle to shamelessly promote my book - 'A is for Art' - that details an incredibly easy method whereby anyone can draw easily recognisable images. (Selling steadily in my Etsy shop-click on the link on the right for more info.)

rock star

Did a spot of painting last night. My sisters partner mentioned he liked the work of Pete Mckee -a Sheffield based artist. Take a look at his website www.therealmckee.co.uk/
So I painted this up for him, in a similar sort of style. He's a bit of an old rocker so hopefully should appreciate it. I deliberately kept the image simple but thoroughly enjoyed the process - it took about 2 hours or so. A4, acrylics on paper.

back from hols

Finally back from jet setting around the world - well France & UK anyway!
Managed to build a shed from pile of bits (actually a very well designed and relatively easy to follow - despite all the instructions being way beyond my schoolboy French - kit) ;

and hopefully get my son sorted out with regard to university.
Now back to work tomorrow - sigh!

back!

Back from the summer school - a fantastic experience. The children were marvellous and hopefully got a lot out of it.
The artists did the galleries (Courtauld, Tate Modern, National) and a workshop with Sue Deighton whilst the dramatists did several workshops at The Globe Theatre, as well as the whole group taking in a couple of shows (War Horse & The Railway Children) - both superbly imaginative renditions.
A whistle-stop, cultural visit to the capital that will, I think, stay with them for a very long time.

Off now for a break to deepest, darkest France to recharge ready for the start of another school year!

hols!

After what seems like a very long, hard year, the school hols have finally arrived! I'm sure the children need a break as much as the teachers- they've worked really hard and deserve a rest.
Saying that, some of us are off to London to round the year off. Tomorrow a group of Gifted and Talented (in art and drama) youngsters hit the city to 'do' the galleries, the Globe and take in a couple of shows - Warhorse and The Railway Children. We'll be having workshops with experienced practitioners and taking in some of the more cultural sights.
Off to pack!