I was so honoured and excited to be invited to visit this art exhibition which was held at Guiseley Methodist Church Hall on 19 June 2018.
The Aireborough Learning Partnership Trust (ALPT) is a collection of 12 schools (two are high schools and 10 are primary) which make up a vibrant learning network across Guiseley, Rawdon and Yeadon. As a co-operative trust ALPT wants to make a difference and provide real benefit to the Aireborough community.
This is ALPT’s third art exhibition but the first to be entirely focused on the use of recycled materials, as you can see from the images below.
The event was inspired by the art leaders of the ALPT member schools and co-ordinated by the Art Department at Guiseley School which has been awarded Platinum Artsmark status by the Arts Council of England.
Alison Anslow who is the chair of the ALPT kindly introduced me to the attendees from the member schools.
I gave my feedback on the truly inspirational art the students had created and went on to talk about how I paint with recycled materials, such as twigs I find on the ground. I also gave a very short demonstration of how I create my intricate paper cuts, some of which are turned into laser cut stainless-steel artworks.
You can read more about the ALPT on their website and a huge thank you for inviting me along.
I was asked to create a special painting for the prestigious annual Berry’s Tennis Event by Martin Wicks, owner of Hazlewood Castle. This is a magnificent 12th-century castle hotel set in spectacular surroundings near York. As the Artist-in-Residence here, I have many
paintings displayed throughout the castle.
Spring presents the most amazing spectacle and in a short window early May, the Cherry Blossoms burst forth followed by the Bluebells and sometimes at the same time. I love being outside in the elements capturing these sights.
My background to painting outside stems from early childhood. No matter what the weather - I'll always try and paint outside of my studio to capture the subject matter be it animals, landscapes or as is often the case - a combination!
Anita Bowerman
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