Tap into your artistic side with Wyreena’s Term 2 program of arts-based workshops

If you’re looking to a take up a new interest or pursue your creative calling, now’s the time to browse Wyreena’s Term 2 program, which is full of creative and lifestyle courses from mid-April through to June.

Wyreena’s program has something for adults and children of all abilities who wish to either learn a new arts-based skill, expand their existing arts practice, or enhance their physical and mental wellbeing.

The program offers one-day workshops, classes for adults with special needs and an age-streamed children’s art program conveniently held after school hours during school terms. Enrolments open Monday 16 March 2020.

Children from as young as five can unleash their ‘inner artist’ through a range of arts-based workshops, including mixed media, learning to draw, painting and pottery, while an intermediate art workshop for children aged 11 and over will help those looking to develop their arts skills.

Wyreena arts tutor Gillian Nix says there is magic and joy that comes from teaching primary-aged students to create and use their imaginations – something that can get lost as we get older.

“Children don’t worry as much about making mistakes or trying to be ‘perfect’ with their finished artworks. I enjoy how younger students are very open to learning new skills and techniques without fear or hesitation. I get a lot of inspiration myself from the work that students create,” says Gillian.

This term, Gillian will be guiding young students through a nine-week ‘Fun with Portraiture’ workshop exploring portraiture in various forms using a range of materials and techniques. The workshop will also be an opportunity for previous students to build on skills taught during last term.

“My after-school art class has an overall portraiture focus. In Term 1 we studied the wire sculptures of American artist Alexander Calder, and students experimented with wire to create their own self-portrait. Students also created an enlarged eye study using charcoal and chalk in the style of M.C Escher. Next week, students are beginning a self-portrait painting using shades of blue in the style of Picasso.

“In Term 2, there will be a continued focus on portraiture, and I will change the skills and materials that the students will be using so that returning students are challenged and expanding their skill-set,” she said.

“I absolutely love helping students build up their skills and create something that they are proud of. When someone surprises themselves in what they can create and then has a shift in their perception of themselves, this is really special to be part of.”

Each term, Wyreena offers a range of short and regular courses in the creative arts that are tailored for absolute beginners through to the more advanced.

For adults interested in building on their artistic skills or wanting to learn something new, there are courses in mosaics, drawing, painting, pottery and contemporary art.

Find your path to tranquillity and wellbeing through weekly classes that explore the gentle movements and postures of Hatha Yoga, or cultivate mindful awareness of your body, mind and self with traditional meditation practice.

Wyreena also offers many art courses specifically developed for and tailored to adults with physical and intellectual disabilities, which empowers people to explore art alongside their carer.

You can book online for a course or class from Monday 16 March, or visit the centre to enrol or call Wyreena on 9294 5590.

Wyreena Community Arts Centre is located at 13-23 Hull Road, Croydon.

Gillian Nix is a Scottish artist who now lives in Croydon with her family amongst the gum trees, kookaburras and parrots. A graduate from Edinburgh College in Fine Art she has included printmaking to her many skills. Gillian’s work is informed by her vast travels and a wide range of sources including folk art, patterns, textures, story-telling, music, cinema and books. Gillian teaches Art and is committed to sharing her love of all things creative. Gillian is drawn to lino printing, in particular, due to the hypnotic carving, rhythmical process, rich history and the importance of drawing.