Edge GreenWay | The Great (art) Outdoors | Plein Air Landscape: Responses, Distortions and Other Things with Peter Griffen

Join Peter Griffen for a fun painting session where he will demonstrate the process of painting and drawing directly from the landscape to create an abstracted response. Play with distortions which can help focus on certain aspects and introduce exaggerated dynamics to make the imagery more theatrical and perhaps more potent. The joy and appreciation of the landscape will be of the essence and each individual will be encouraged to find their own way to show this using a range of media.

What to expect

Various techniques with acrylic paint will be demonstrated; brushing, scraping, splashing, dripping, glazing, collaging, etc. Participants will be free to experiment with other techniques using graphite, pastels, charcoal, ink and what ever is of interest.

Materials

Materials are provided for this workshop so anyone can join in, but if you have your own kit please bring it along so you can work with materials you are familiar with.

For experience painters, please work as you normally would and bring:

• Your usual paint colours – including black and white,
• whatever surface you are used to painting on (40x55cm reccomended),
• some sheets of paper with support backing and/or some stretched canvases of various sizes.
• brushes, and
• additional materials as you require such pencils, charcoal, pastels, spatula, water containers, rags etc.

What else to bring

• A hat, sunscreen, bottled water and your picnic lunch.
• Something to sit on: a lightweight camping stool or chair or a picnic rug to sit on the ground.

These free workshops are presented by Art Est. Art School as part of Edge GreenWay, sponsored by Inner West Council.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EDGE GreenWay: The Great (Art) Outdoors?

The Great (Art) Outdoors is a multi-day event filled with free outdoor art workshops. It is part of the Inner West Council’s EDGE 2022 program. The main event date is Sunday 15 May (which is when most of the workshops take place) however, free workshops will be running from 13-21 May. To download the full Great (Art) Outdoors program, click here.

How much does it cost to attend?

Participation is free thanks to Inner West Council.

Can I just turn up on the day?

All participants must pre-register. You will need to enrol each person age 5 and over attending on the Art Est website.

Can I join more than one group?

No, you have to pick a favourite! Due to limited numbers, you will only be able to register for one workshop. You are unable to move between different workshops on the day.

Can I just send my kids along?

Due to safety issues in the great outdoors, children under 18 MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the whole session. Many of the workshops are family friendly, and this is indicated in the course information. It’s a great chance to do some art in the great outdoors together!

Can I bring my dog?

Sure, dogs welcome. Please keep them on a lead, pick up after them and make sure you have water and a bowl for them.

Where is the Great (art) Outdoors located?

Inner West GreenWay, along Hawthorne Canal, between the CityWest Link bridge and Cafe Bones. For directions, click here

Will I have to walk very far?

This will depend on the location and format of your group activity. Some will be based in one place for the whole time, others will explore the area a little but you won’t have to walk too far and minimal fitness levels are required.

What should I wear?

Dress for all weather conditions. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes. A hat. An apron if you have one or be prepared to get messy (maybe!)

What if it rains?

If it’s a light rain, bring an umbrella, wear a raincoat and make sure your picnic rug is waterproof. We are now planning for most workshops to be held undercover. However, if it’s torrential rain or extreme weather conditions, we will message all registered participants to advise any changes to the program.

What else do I need to know?

We will be in touch with you to confirm all arrangements closer to the date, so check your email inbox for news.

If you have any questions, please email art@artest.com.au, call or message to 0491203545.