Creative Aging workshops
are free, professionally run programs by the Brooklyn Public Library’s Services
for Older Adults, with a focus on social engaging and learning new
skills. Each series runs approximately 8-10 weeks ending with a final celebration
where participants share their accomplishments with their family, friends, and
community.
The Covid-19
global health crisis caused the Brooklyn Public Library to suspend all contact
activities. This led to our workshops and classes being conducted virtually, to
continue engaging our seniors in the programs they enjoy. Utilizing Zoom - which
has become the leader in teleconferencing, distance education, and social
relations – Creative Aging was able to bring Drawing
Techniques with Charcoal to our participants…and it was an amazing
experience!
The works being
displayed in this virtual gallery are the culmination of the first art workshop
taught remotely by the teaching artist, Nigel Morgan. The class explored landscapes,
seascapes, still life and nature images using various charcoal drawing methods.
Nigel set up a website for the class participants to access drawing tools and technique
samples as well as the images that were used for each week’s instruction.
During the class
time, students were encouraged to share their artwork by holding them up to
their cameras and, while in gallery view, Nigel was able to choose several
students’ artwork to comment on and offer tips and pointers for improvement.
Students were
given homework assignments at the end of each class and were encouraged to email
their completed assignments to Nigel for posting onto the class website. Critiquing
of the submitted assignments took place at the beginning of the next class.
Each class
participant was encouraged to submit two drawings for our culminating event:
one “never before seen” image chosen by the participant and one from the 20 images
Nigel posted on the class website. Some chose to submit drawings that they had
previously submitted for homework.
Thank you to everyone
that participated and shared their artwork here on this virtual platform. Please share this exhibit with your family and friends,
and we look forward to seeing you again at the next art workshop!
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