Through November at the Online Art Group, we’ve been delving into the construction of our own art materials with artist Gary Mills. We began with the process of creating a liner journal or ‘art scroll’; piecing together intentionally chosen materials through layering and stitch, and further working into this with an array of mark making, painting, collage techniques.

Though there were clear steps to follow, Gary encouraged us to all approach this in a very instinctive way to piece together creations that felt organic. This was also echoed in the subject matter. A real theme has begun to develop across Gary’s sessions where he’s really helping us to find colour, texture and beauty out in nature – even during these darker, greyer months. 

We then moved on from this to create our own small folded travelling journal. We were encouraged to take a walk, a meander, trip or a journey, concentrating on the horizon line and where the land falls, really rooting our projects in an experience from nature. And now the basic journals are made, the next step is for us to take them out into the world and work back into them, either whilst in nature, or responding to images and photographs.

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 2023
December 6, 20

Sessions with artist Sara Dudman 2024
January 03, 17
February 07, 21
March 06, 20

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

This project is supported by Open Mental Health