“A child recognises an image before it can even speak,” said Dominic Thornburn of the Rhodes University
department of Fine Art, while addressing learners at the Carinus Art Gallery’s 62nd annual exhibition
on Thursday evening.
“A child recognises an image before it can even speak,” said Dominic Thornburn of the Rhodes University
department of Fine Art, while addressing learners at the Carinus Art Gallery’s 62nd annual exhibition
on Thursday evening.
Learners from Graeme College, Victoria Girls’ Primary and High School and Hoërskool PJ Olivier gathered at the gallery, where their artworks are on display.
Parents were also present to revel in their children’s creative talents. Thornburn spoke on the artistic impulse of an artist and how important it is for aspiring artists to respond to that impulse as it comes.
“Art may seem relatively easy but in reality it is hard, if it was easy then everyone would be an artist. You can’t make an authentic artwork without trusting yourself.”
He concluded that learners should take art seriously and consider it as a career. According to Carinus principal, Virginia Reed the school's supportive approach to teaching plays a vital role in the success of the school.
“Carinus teachers are essential and are lifeaffirming”. She then announced the best overall award for 2010, which went to Amy von Witt, a Grade 12 learner at VGHS.
Amy was amazed by this, saying her she was inspired by dream imagery, her life experience and nature. She won the prize for her sculpture which symbolises victory after a battle well fought.
Out of the school’s 1 089 learners, 300 have been awarded for their excellence this year. Reed concluded, “When children study arts, they accept a great part of their lives, which is something that no other subject does.”
