Ladies group hear 'anyone can draw - use a black pen!'
Under intriguing instruction of needing to take a black pen when attending June Meeting; the ladies of Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club initially enjoyed a delicious meal of pork chops complimented by a creamy leek sauce with veg and sweet potatoes or salmon and vegetarian options. Although a similar healthy choice offered for puddings; most opted for the white chocolate roulade with strawberries and raspberries and cleared their plates. Paul and waiting staff were thanked for their hospitality.
Furnished with foliage and flowers, by the Speaker Kate Dawes, an artist of some 25 years whose passion is in nature and botanicals; ladies learnt from Kate, various ‘techniques’ using a black pen. Working in creative and photographic industries in Paris, Mallorca and London she firmly believes, “Anyone can draw!” Her drawing talks and workshops aim to be relaxed, fun and suitable for anyone of who considers themselves unable to draw because Kate’s method of teaching a selection of techniques in pen drawing, is to give you skills whilst relaxing.
Rather than focusing on end results, she explained that whether drawing alone, in a group or simply with a friend, it is the focus of your attention which relaxes you. This helps well-being and by doing it for 20 mins each day, it has been proven to balance your dopamine levels and as you relax it reduces worry, stress and anxiety. Art has always been part of Kate’s life as the posters which adorned her walls as a teenager, were not as those of her friends and the teenage adulation of Pop stars, because even then prints from art exhibitions peppered her room.
Wanting to share this enthusiasm, she now teaches techniques of pen drawing, such as Loose Technique - where the arm and wrist is loose; Bold Technique – used if decisive, giving strong lines or other Techniques such as Scribble or Sketchy. Then as confidence increases, you progress using Mix and Match techniques, to give a hybrid effect, showing tiny flicks and building up texture and a 3D effect. Kate is adamant it is the ‘process’ rather than the ‘artwork produced’ for, it has been proven to aid ‘wellbeing.’ It is good for mindfulness whilst you concentrate on what you are doing. It enables you to empty your mind completely and focus your thoughts for 20 minuetes a day. If you can do it with a community, it helps you to open up and whilst enjoying art, you can also appreciate the outdoors.
Retired or Semi-Retired, professional or business ladies meet on the first Thursday each month at Chase Golf Club, 12 noon, to share meal, fellowship and speakers with outings and other activities. New members are welcome: Annual membership is only £16 and two course lunch £22. Further information contact: Membership Secretary, Barbara on 01889 882 166 or Chairman Anne 01922 418 037.
Entertainment 3 July by Andy French; ‘Fun & Laughter Quiz.’
