Explore abstract art-making through play and experimentation in this interactive workshop with Artist and Designer Ed Kelly at Outset Gallery.

In this workshop, attendees will focus on the fundamental building blocks of colour, shape, and composition. Emphasising process, creativity, and engagement, the workshop is designed to be process-driven.

This one-day workshop is divided into two sessions, allowing participants to create and ultimately take home their artwork on the same day.

Session 1
The first session will start with a brief presentation by the artist about his process and practice, followed by a question-and-answer segment. Attendees will then be guided through a prescribed method, starting with the selection of colors. Following this, they will actively engage in spray painting (using water-based paint) their chosen motifs. There will also be a discussion about their selections, focusing on what motivated their color choices.

Lunch Break / Drying Time

Session 2
The second session will commence with a review of the artwork produced in the first session. The focus will then shift to composition, examining the role of play and experimentation in selecting a final piece.

Participants will finalise their compositions and present their work to the group, sharing their thoughts on the art-making experience. There will also be an open discussion on how the work should be documented and presented. The completed pieces will be left on display in the gallery to dry.

Outset Gallery’s workshops are designed with a limited number of spaces in order to ensure that each participant receives valuable one-to-one attention from the tutor and is able to benefit the most from the course. Participants will be encouraged to get involved in discussing different topics as they arise and describe their own practice.

This workshop offers two Open Access places, for which the workshop fee is waived. These places are awarded based on financial need or the relevance of the course to the individual. The aim is to make information and education accessible by removing financial barriers, thereby opening our workshop series to all who seek further artist-led education. To apply for the Open Access place – please email outsetopencalls@gmail.com with the title Open Access and a few short lines about how it would benefit you.