Below are two students’ reflections on their recent oil painting workshop experience.

“On Thursday 19 February, our Year 11 Visual Art ATAR students were invited to participate in an oil painting workshop run by local artist Rachelle Dusting. This interactive workshop was the first time many of us had used oil paints. It enabled us to explore the medium of oil paints and improve our abilities of creating realistic portraiture. 

The day was split into three different sessions, each coming with its lessons and activities, gradually easing us into the harder aspects of oil painting. We began by doing a simple tonal study, experimenting with blacks and whites to get a grasp of how oil tones behave. After recess, we engaged in a similar activity which taught us how to use coloured oils and warm and cool shading to achieve a dynamic painting. Finally, after lunch, we put our newfound knowledge of tone, colour and contrast to the test by attempting to paint a realistic eye, which turned out surprisingly well.  

Overall, the results of the incursion were overwhelmingly positive, and we all had a wonderful time with Rachelle. It is certain that a lot of us will be using our new medium of expertise to work in our future projects.” – Lauren Du and Darcy Jordan

As their teacher, I am incredibly proud of the way they embraced a new and challenging medium with curiosity, focus and maturity.

They demonstrated persistence, thoughtful risk taking and a genuine willingness to refine their skills, and the quality of work produced throughout the day was a true credit to their dedication.

Miss Paige Alderdice
Visual Arts Teacher