Note for Diary

TAS Christmas Party
12 Dec
In Palm Room
Music, food and fun

THIS ISSUE PAGES

1 2 - 4 5 6 7

OTHER ISSUES

Tanya Gardner at a TAS workshop

Perrys

ART & OFFICE
SUPPLIES

Rashmi Chandé

109 East Street
Southampton,
Hampshire
SO14 3HD
Tel: (023) 80339444
Fax: (023) 8023 1644

10% discount

to T.A.S. members

Photos © Totton Art Society

I joined TAS in September 2007. I can distinctly remember my first workshop night. I was very anxious, and thoughts were whizzing through my mind such as: 'How good is everyone else's work going to be? 'Will I fit in?', 'Will they like the way I do my artwork?', 'Will it be good enough?'. I needn't have worried, for as soon as I walked through the door I was greeted with open arms, smiles and a sense of belonging as I entered a warm, friendly atmosphere. All previous apprehensive thoughts were banished. When finding somewhere to sit, I homed in on Helen, as I had spoken to her on the phone regarding joining.

I haven't looked back since then and will continue attending for as long as I am able. It's really good having free range on the topics you want to paint or being able to continue on from the previous demonstrations' theme. I find the workshops extremely beneficial to me; not only do I have "me time" to do what I want and not feel guilty, it is also very therapeutic and relaxing after a day at work. It's a time to socialise, or not, as the mood takes me without anyone being offended. I feel able to approach anyone about their art and techniques at tea break without feeling foolish for asking their advice. I think I'll learn a lot here. I'm one of the youngest in our workshop group, which did surprise me, and I hope we can bring in more people from my generation. I am gaining a lot of knowledge from many enthusiastic artists.

I mainly make cards but had a burning desire after reaching my 40th birthday to get on with creating paintings and exploring with different mediums. I have neglected my artwork by putting my career first, but now would like to try all kinds of different media and techniques. With a wealth of experience here to tap into it will help me achieve this and develop my artwork. I enjoy mixed media, collaging with oils, acrylics and watercolour, and other mediums. I used to work in a college with people who had learning difficulties and ran a couple of 8 week Art courses, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

I am finding that after a TAS demonstration I get a 'buzzing feeling' and find the drive to develop my artwork. Motivation and enthusiasm from other artists in the group is rubbing off and leaves me with a warm glowing feeling, enjoying arty conversations with like-minded people. I'd just like to say thank you to the artists I've met who have created such a warm sanctuary for arty people like me to relax in.

TANYA GARDENER