We began with an artist led tour around his exhibition, to gain a better understanding of how Alexis' creative output communicates with his audience.
Alexis' exhibition Chaos Contained uses clay and repeated shapes patterns and symmetry, to introduce us to chaos theory. The work is exquisite and looks beautiful in the Chancel Gallery, with all the original church windows and features.
Back in the Education Room, Alexis spoke of his journey through the arts, as a student, as a practising artist and as an artist who teaches. It was a very interesting introduction to how an artist would start their life and career path.
An example of fired clay, which we were to all recreate using well practised techniques and clay rolling skills.
At each stage, Alexis pointed out ways in which these skills can be embedded in the classroom, continually reminding us of how a child's brain may work a lot simply than we remember as adults.
Once a shape is simplified, we notice that all 3D shapes derive from a sphere, even large pointy cones.
Combining the shapes we'd made, teachers were then given the chance to decorate their creations. It was important for teachers to notice the marks made by various tools.
Once delegates had completed their star fish, we moved on to use a different clay; one we used to make ourselves a pinch pot.
The careful hand movements were difficult to master and reminded us how it felt to have to learn new muscle movements with having no experience. It was reassuring to know that each of us felt the need to concentrate, as the skill didn't come naturally.
Some of the final outcomes were really interesting, as each individual had a different take and understanding of the material. This is a quality we often forget as teachers, that children have their own individual vision and interpretation of a materials and their chosen outcome. This is something that we should perhaps celebrate and nurture more in our pupils, which was something discussed around the table.
"[The delivery of the session was] very information and practical. Good teaching of skills that can be used to teach the children." - KS1 teacher
"Clear step-by-step instructions. It was friendly, relaxed, clear and interesting. It was a great session with good transferable skills." - KS3 teacher
"I will be sharing this with staff in school!" - KS2 teacher
Overall, the afternoon gave the teachers a chance to work directly with an artist to better understand a material used year in year out in every classroom.
Alexis' exhibition Chaos Contained will be on display in the gallery until the end of Summer Term, meaning there is ample opportunity to take advantage of Self Guided Tours, Guided Tours or booking a related workshop, so your pupils can learn from the skills passed on by Alexis.
To book any of the above mentioned, please contact our Education Officer on 01724 297070 or email education.2021@northlincs.gov.uk
