North York Visual Artists – Critique Night

Last night, I visited the North York Visual Artists at the Edithvale Community Centre. That’s me above with Joan McGivney, their new president, and Tony Cook, who organized the evening. I’ve given a lot of demonstrations and workshops to art groups over the years but this was a different experience. I was invited to critique the member’s work.

The critique is a key element of my teaching. Studio classes end with a critique as does a day of plein-air painting during a painting holiday. I really enjoy the critique and that might be why I’m known for a positive  approach.

It takes courage to allow a total stranger to comment on your painting. Initially, I did most of the talking but the participants chipped in more and more over the course of the evening. The work was very diverse and showed not only a high skill level but real personality and imagination. It was a pleasure to be able to offer my thoughts to these talented artists.

 

Bayview Watercolour Society Demo

Tony Cook, Me, Julie Junger, Lizbeth Rodger

Last night, I gave a demonstration to the Bayview Watercolour Society. Lizbeth Rodger is the current President, Julie Junger is the Workshop Co-ordinator and Tony Cook, who I’ve known for several years, gave me a lift to the venue.

I prepared a half-sheet of Curry’s 200 lb. cold press paper ahead of time with a preliminary wash and the drawing. My theme was a Newfoundland fishing village and I approached it from a ‘cubist’ point of view. Actually, multiple points of view are a key element of the cubist philosophy and I enjoyed fragmenting and re-arranging my village. My reference material was from my summer sketchbook and my memory.

I didn’t expect to finish the piece over the course of the evening but, as soon as I get back from Italy, I will. I concentrated on the boat. It took a while for it to become visible to the audience.

While painting, I talked about my interest in Cubism and about brush-handling, colour and the techniques I employ.

When I got home last night, I stared at the watercolour for an hour, glass of red wine in hand, and I’m already itching to work on it. Once completed, I’ll post the final result.

The demonstration was well-attended and I appreciated the good questions and enthusiasm of the group. The BWS uses a camera and screen, rather than an overhead mirror, and the cameraman handled this tricky job very well. Thanks, everyone.