“So you can’t draw a straight line, well relax, have fun creating crooked lines.”

 

It’s an irresistible invitation from artist and tutor Wendy Walls whose Give it a Go workshops are about exactly that.

 

For those who are curiously wondering if the paintbrush is likely to be a friend or a foe, these workshops are an opportunity for that relationship to emerge and flourish in a supportive atmosphere. With the promise that there is no right or wrong, new and nearly new artists are encouraged to experiment and grow in confidence under Wendy’s expert guidance.

 

The Give it a Go sessions are part of the Whitianga artist’s programme of workshops that cater from absolute beginners to more experienced creatives looking to hone particular skills. Drawing on her own personal experience, Wendy recognises the tentativeness within almost every budding artist and is passionate about helping others discover and release their creative potential.

 

A qualified school teacher, it was an inspirational read that kick started Wendy’s journey to establishing herself as a full-time artist. After reading Mary Todd Beam’s book, “Finding Your Creative Self” Wendy rose to the challenge and travelled to North Carolina to attend one of the American artist’s workshops.

 

Now, combining her two great loves – teaching and art – she is passionate about supporting others to take those first brave steps towards uncovering their potential. The distinctive colourful style that features in her own mixed media comes through in her teaching and classes are fun and energetic with a real focus on trying new things. “Give it a Go” is a meander through exciting, easy and enlightening ways to use contemporary painting materials.

 

“Plan on getting messy and arrive with an art shirt or apron and plenty of enthusiasm. There’s no right or wrong in this class so (everyone can) give it a go without fear of failure,” Wendy promises. It is this relaxed approach that has seen dozens participate in Wendy’s workshops over the past few years. Local classes take place at her Whitianga studio, however, Wendy also takes bookings from groups and organisations throughout the North Island.

 

For those who would like to extend their skills or explore different techniques, Wendy’s upcoming specialised workshops could be just the opportunity. Collage, Texture and Design and Colour are among the interesting titles on offer over the coming winter months with easy online booking available at Wendy’s website which can be found on her Creative Coromandel profile.

 

As well as holding a Diploma in Interior Design, Wendy is a Golden Certified Instructor for Golden Artist Colors of New York. In 2016 she co-wrote and illustrated the children’s book, Lulu Moo and the Mystery of the Big Belly. Wendy is also a regular face on the Mercury Bay Art Escape as well as the fringe Chasing Mercury series. This includes the Chasing Mercury Winter Arts Workshop programme from 13th to 16th July which runs alongside the Arts and Crafts Fair at the Whitianga Town Hall.

 

Article published 20-06-2019

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