The Importance of Art & Creativity in Schools

Click on image to view video. If that fails, use this link: https://youtu.be/JEN2bpSbwzI

In Caribbean schools, as in many other places in the world, art is placed on the back burner turned down low. In my latest video I make a plea for placing it on the front burner turned up high.

Models, where art thou?

The model at a fleeting glance.

Before paper, paint and brushes, I need a model to inspire. In recent years, models on my small island of Dominica, have been few and far between. What with being blown away by hurricanes and going on to university, all have moved on. 

To give courage to those who may be tempted, all who have modelled for me over the past forty years give assurance that they cherish happy memories of being part of the creative process. 

A recent article of mine titled, Growing Old Disgracefully directed hundreds of Dominicans to my blog. Perhaps, within their numbers is my next inspirational model. 

Three remarkable ladies

Diane Lawrenson's sculpture of Anne Lister

The first of my remarkable ladies is Anne Lister who in earlier times lived within a mile of the village where I spent my childhood and teenage years.

The second, is Helena Whitbread. She also spent her childhood within a few miles of Anne Lister's home. Helena tells of her research into the life of Anne Lister, and of her own inspirational life story in two excellent video documentaries. One about Anne Lister  and the other, about her own life.   

The third is sculptress Diane Lawrenson. I award her sculpture my best alcollade, that being, I wish I'd have created that!

I can relate to what Diane says about her work.

To be a figurative sculptor working in a medium as eternal and solid as bronze, calls for extraordinary practical abilities and creative ambition. This is the medium of Rodin and the Renaissance masters. It requires experience and understanding of the alchemy: of turning flesh into clay, clay into metal and through a process of moulding, casting, refining and patination, resulting in a form and texture that conjures up the human presence once more.

I remember Shiden Hall, the home of Anne Lister, from school trips. But in those days lesbian relationships were not talked about. Our lesson began and ended with the history of the hall.

The Art of Suggestiveness

 My latest video is not for the faint hearted; and in particular, it is not for the faint hearted painters in watercolour. My brush dribbles and drips, and runs run amok, as I attempt to capture the naked beauty of the models in my series, Daughters of the Caribbean Sun.

The model featured in the video's title image, is the same model that is featured in one of my paintings that has been selected for a forthcoming definitive book on the nude in contemporary art. A message from the publishers reads:

The selection process for the book was incredibly competitive. However, your work stood out and sparked passionate discussions.  

Without models my work would not exist. That you Collean. I am pleased that the publishers have rewarded you for the afternoon when you sweltered under the tropical sun while I made this painting.

 

Collean