Artist turns student for McGregor
Winter school at USQ
DEB Gilmartin is already a talented artist who has taught drawing at the McGregor Winter School in past years. But this year she was a student.
Ms Gilmartin chose to learn about sculpture. She is one of many people taking part in the five-day arts retreat at the University of Southern Queensland.
“I have done a bit of sculpting before, but nowhere near to the size,” Ms Gilmartin said.
“That is why I came, because I really wanted to learn how to sculpt.
“I teach drawing but it is so nice to be a student, because it reminds you what it is like to be a student.”
Ms Gilmartin said when it came to creating something in 3D, it was very different.
It was the first year teaching at the McGregor Winter School for millinery tutor Johanna Guerin.
“(They learn) lots of hand sewing, a skill that seems to have been lost. We are all learning different stitches that will apply to various hats and various requirements,” Ms Guerin said.
She said the best thing about teaching was the look
on a person’s face when they had achieved something and learnt a new skill.
In the millinery class students were working to create a 1920s felt cloche hat, 1950s pillboxes and a more modern sculptural piece.
The McGregor Winter School is celebrating 30 years this year.
It is an immersive artists retreat where people can select a course suited to their level in various mediums and learn from some of the country’s best artists.
Courses included drawing, painting, jewellery making and furniture making.