MSWA

MSWA MEMBER CREATIVITY FLOWS IN ART GROUP “Creativity is contagious, pass it on.” Albert Einstein Every child is an artist. Give a child paints, crayons, clay or Lego and the majority will be happy for hours. The problem is, how to remain an artist as we grow up? My childhood Christmas list was for paints, brushes and sketch pads, apart for the one time when I asked for a puppy but sadly that never eventuated! I went to art college and my career started in graphic design, changing direction in the 1990s to supporting children with special needs. In later years another move led me into working with people with dementia. Throughout my working life I used my creative skills to support people of all ages to enjoy the fun that art, in its many forms, brings. This year I met three lovely ladies at the MSWA gym in Joondalup who were keen to join me in a small art group. We meet weekly and I support each person in whatever they would like to do. I always wanted a dog, so I made one! This is Rupert. He’s a cross Irish wolfhound boxer/ cocker spaniel. Sandra loves making craft items. This is her extremely rare Bird of Paradise lovingly made from wire, papier-mâché and feathers. Sandra’s vibrant acrylic artwork. 18

Amanda told me she couldn’t even draw a straight line. I said, “That’s okay, we don’t need to do straight lines!” Amanda’s acrylic paint pouring work above was a beautiful example of colours, curves and flowing shapes. This was so successful that she made a cup and saucer designed to hold herb plants (above right). Rhonda wanted to learn how to draw and paint. Her ability to really look and see shapes, colours, depth and perspective really shows in this watercolour. Below are two of her artworks.. I challenge anyone who says, “I am not creative”. Find your inner child and get messy. Get out the paints and mix your favourite colours. Be aware, you may get lost in time by letting your mind go free. Play your favourite music, or just listen to the sounds of nature. You may be surprised what you can create! I have had so much fun with my fellow artists. It has been very rewarding for me to see how happy these ladies have been, creating their individual works of art and seeing their achievements. Best wishes to all for a very happy Christmas, and who knows what we will show and tell next year! Thanks to Rhonda, Sandra and Amanda for your permission to show your work for this article. “I begin with an idea, and then it becomes something else.” Pablo Picasso. SHEILA LAPPING MSWA MEMBER 19