A Splash of Colour with IMPS: Abstract Expressionism

Posted on 8th August 2019

On Tuesday 6th August 75 children between 17 months and 11 years old, together with their parents, grandparents and carers, joined Rachel Baker from IMPS as she introduced them all to the works of world of abstract expressionism by Albert Irvin and John Golding in the Corn Hall Lower Gallery. The families looked at the works of these renowned artists and talked about how art can be used to express feelings and thoughts. Then we moved into the main hall and all the children, (and some of the adults!) took the opportunity to create their own pieces of art. For 42% of the families who participated this was the first introduction to an art gallery for their children. One parent commented ‘It was great for the children to have the big space to express their creativity. This is something that cannot be done in a small classroom. I loved that she could think about feelings and how to transfer them to paper, rather than having to try and recreate real life which can be frustratingly difficult for this age group’ while another said ‘So wonderful to have an artist inspired workshop in Diss – Completely absorbed children producing inspiring work!’ Thank you to Rachel Baker and IMPS (www.impscreativity.co.uk) for engaging the children with these amazing works of art in such a creative way    Thank you also to Lorna, Bethany and Naomi who were also brilliant at supporting the children as they created their masterpieces.  This activity was made possible through the support of Norfolk County Council Arts Project Fund. The next ‘Start with Art’ is on Tuesday October 22nd and will focus on the etchings of Norman Ackroyd.