Author: Halifax Art Society

Review

Art Activist Barbie

Halifax Art Society

At the beginning of March, Dr. Sarah Williamson illustrated talk with ‘Art Activist Barbie’ on creative subversion in galleries and museums.

Dr. Sarah Williamson from the University of Huddersfield, with the help of a Barbie doll, is on a mission to highlight the lack of female artists represented in our galleries and museums.

Barbie, with the aid of a fabulous wardrobe and armed with mini placards is cleverly photographed in front of various paintings and statues, protesting at the way that women are portrayed as scantily clad/naked maids and sirens throughout history. ArtActivistBarbie has a world-wide following on Twitter and has even been to Westminster to highlight her campaign to ministers.

Sarah’s talk sparked a lot of lively discussion with members. She was thanked by Lynda who presented Sarah with a new Barbie to help her with future campaigns.

Review

Acrylic Landscape demonstration

Halifax Art Society

On 17th February we had a demonstration by our society president Paul Talbot-Greaves.

Paul created two different landscapes, one on canvas board and one on acrylic paper. It was interesting to learn about the differences in the techniques he applied to each painting, the affect of using matt medium with acrylic paint, working dark to light, using a test strip to match a colour before applying and much more.

Paul also brought in some of his artwork which was inspiring to see. We are all looking forward to applying what we have learned at next weeks meeting.

Review

Watercolours with Jane Austin

Halifax Art Society

We welcomed back Jane Austin for a watercolour demonstration on 27th January. It was 2019 when she last visited us!

Jane took us through all the stages of how to layer your paints to build up the image, giving us so many tips and techniques to remember. The painting still needs more work until it’s completed, but you can’t rush a watercolour…

The following week members had the opportunity to have a go at watercolours themselves. Jane provided photos for members to work from to practise the techniques she demonstrated. Members felt inspired by what they learnt last week and produced some lovely work.

Review

Charles Horner of Halifax

Halifax Art Society

On the 13th of this month we had an illustrated talk by Lynne and Philip Hickin about Charles Horner, celebrated jeweller of Halifax. This was an interesting talk enjoyed by everyone. Lynne brought in some of her collection which were quite stunning, as well as some beautifully illustrated books.

The next week, following on from Lynne and Philip’s inspiring talk on Charles Horner, they brought in some templates and photos we could use to help create our own jewellery designs. It certainly wasn’t as easy as it first appeared!