Appropriate Appropriation Workshop
At the beginning of the month, on the 3rd of February, we held our “Appropriate Appropriation” workshop, funded by The Stirling & Forth Valley Art Society.
Creative Stirling welcomed families and young people from Stirlingshire to attend. Two sessions were delivered, firstly with children aged between 5 and 11, and the second for young people aged 12+. Participants were provided with refreshments, including various fruit from Ginger roots, biscuits, hot chocolate and juice.
As a group, we discussed the various artists and their creative methods and techniques that led to their recognition for distinctive artistic styles. We delved into various art movements associated with these artists, using these to actively inspire and influence the young people’s creative works. We discussed Appropriation as an art style, discerning the line between inspiration and respectful learning from other artists, steering clear of theft or plagiarism.
The success of the workshop exceeded expectations, with both age groups producing impressive artworks. The younger children expressed fascination with colours and objects, particularly drawn to modernist movements, abstract expressionism, and pop art. They thoroughly enjoyed the tactile experience of the session, exploring diverse methods of mark-making and even getting hands on with their creative expression.
The longer teen session with larger canvases catered to portfolio building and included a visit to one of our resident artists Daniel Martin, who has his studio within our venue. His studio visit provided insight into the contemporary art industry, and learnings on his pathway into becoming a full-time artist who sells internationally. The session was incredibly helpful to the young people interested in pursuing a career in the creative industries. It also emphasised that art can be used for personal expression and relaxation, and still resonated with those not considering art as a career.
Overall, the intention of building confidence, social skills, safety, expression, and decompression was achieved. The workshop provided a nurturing environment for learning new skills, techniques, art movements, and artists, fostering collaboration and exploration in an open and inclusive space.
This is one of many workshop we have delivered that has been supported by The Arts Society. They continue to fund projects that allow families from our EDI priority groups to be creative, learn, have fun, and meet new people. We are so grateful to them for all of their support!
You can support us too by donating to us. Donations allow us to continue supporting our community through the arts!- http://tinyurl.com/donateCStir
