New art school opens
A much-needed sculpture/art school and training centre called CLAYworx, opens tomorrow, Saturday 7 April at the Blue Shed.
This educational facility was jointly founded by local artist Bert du Plooy in conjunction with businessman and art patron Albert Wiffen.
"This project is important for the social cohesion and artistic development of our artistic community and is extended to both school learners, beginners and advanced students," said Bert.
"I have limited sculpture and art classes to five students per lesson (three to four hours per day), weekday mornings or afternoons as required, to allow individual attention to each student.
Free drawing classes (charcoal on paper) are extended to all newcomers to determine the level of training required," he said. Students can determine their own level of training with Bert, through consultation with him.
Clay sculpture and casting
Clay soil from the Albertinia quarry is supplied free of charge, but students are required to batten their own clay as part of their training programme – 2kg free for own use at home and 1kg for the studio. The terracotta firing of the sculptures with a kiln are arranged.
Casting methods are taught in gypsum, fibreglass and pewter for small jewellery pieces for advanced students. Bronze casting gets done in Stellenbosch foundries but is costly. "Keep in mind that there is virtually no public sculpture art in Mossel Bay .... " said Bert.
Art and drawing classes
Sculpture classes are three days per week (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday), the other two days spent on drawing and painting classes in all mediums, supported with history of art education and understanding the art thinking processes and techniques.
Costs are R150 per three- to four-hour lessons for adults and R100 for children one day a week (Thursdays and Fridays). Easels and drawing boards are supplied and models when necessary.
“It took me a lifetime to paint like a child (in me).” Pablo Picasso
Opening ceremony
Interested artists are cordially invited to attend this auspicious occasion tomorrow, Saturday 7 April, in the small Conference Centre at the Blue Shed Roastery in Bland Street at 11:00.
RSVP Bert by WhatsApping 078 235 5342 to attend or email duplooybert@ gmail.com for more information.