The beginning of October brought with it our exciting first few sessions with new artist Gary Mills over in the Somerset Art Works – Online Art Group. All of Gary’s sessions are loosely themed around sketchbook and journal working – how to make that fun, accessible and how to build a really tangible body of experiments and artwork. 

Nature is such a constant presence for many artists and Gary is keeping that seasonal connection as the weather begins to turn and inspiration is found in the colours and textures of Autumn. Using found and collected natural objects, Gary is helping us to creatively document the changing seasons through art.

In our first session Gary walked us through the process of Grid Journaling, creating structured spaces within which to freely experiment and build up layers of mark making. The focus here was on finding that balance between choice and placement, whilst keeping things playful and instinctive.

In our second session we continued that thread of layered mixed media mark making, by learning how to make brushes and tools out of found natural objects, and experimenting with the different qualities of line this can produce when nature is both your tool and your inspiration.

We’re so excited to continue this journey with Gary, and can’t wait to see everyone’s beautiful bursting sketchbooks and journals at the end!

Images: group members and the lead artist

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Somerset Art Works – Online Art Group
Running throughout the year, first and third Wednesdays 6.30 – 7.30pm on Facebook Live.
Plus recordings to revisit at any time via the Facebook group page.

Recordings provided – take part at a time that suits you.
For Somerset residents – free places available.
New members welcome.

Sessions with artist Gary Mills:
October 4, 18
November 1, 15
December 6, 20

Contact Emily for more information and bookings
admin@somersetartworks.org.uk

This project is supported by Open Mental Health