Published on: 20 February 2020





Award winning Australian artist Andy Quilty was at Christ Church this week facilitating an interactive meet and greet workshop with our Year 4 Art classes.

As they embark on a new arts project, the students welcomed the opportunity to learn creative and practical skills used by the artist and an exploratory and fearless approach to formulating ideas.

This ultimate test came when Quilty tasked the boys with a live portrait drawing using their least favourable hand and while not looking at their sheet.

“It’s about trusting your eyes and letting your hands do the work,” said Quilty during the workshop.

“When we draw, it’s important to map it out. Draw from the inside and work your way out so you’re not constricted.”

Art Specialist Teacher in the Preparatory School, Mrs Claire Donald commented, “This term the boys are being encouraged to take a less hesitant and more expressive approach to their Art project involving a self-portrait and three-dimensional ceramic house.”

“Andy was wonderful in the way he introduced the notion of happy accidents by removing the idea of mistakes.”

Year 4 student James Adamson said his key takeaway from the workshop was “there are no mistakes in drawing and you just need to go for it.”

“Drawing with my left hand was pretty fun too!” said James.

Quilty has been a finalist in a number of prestigious drawing exhibitions including the Adelaide Perry drawing prize, Rick Amor Drawing prize and the Kedumba Drawing prize. His recent accolades include winning the Mandjar Art Award, South Perth Emerging Artist Award, Kalgoorlie Boulder Art Prize and the RAS Award.