Lifelines 2020

A selection of figure drawings by the Catherine Mitchell Life Drawing Group

[ s p a c e ] gallery is delighted to be hosting the Catherine Mitchell Life Drawing Group for their annual exhibition of figure studies and life drawings.
Representing the human anatomy in pencil, charcoal, pastel, watercolours and a variety of medium, this show is an opportunity to discover some of Waiheke numerous talents, to learn about a seldom presented aspect of New Zealand contemporary art and to purchase affordable original artworks.

Most of the works on display are quick sketches produced during the group weekly practice sessions where models offer a succession of short poses, from a few minutes to half an hour. The resulting drawings have raw energy, dynamic properties and often appear effortless.
“Short poses allow the artist to capture lines, volumes, lights and movements by direct observation from the eye to the hand without spending too much time in the brain where things tend to get more arduous and efforts are wasted on details rather than essence. “ says Olivier Duhamel, a long time member of the group. “… Short poses also allow the model to attempt more dynamic postures. Sitting still for the scrutiny of an artist can be difficult and the pose must be a compromise between the interest of the artist and the comfort of the model. Life drawing is largely a collaborative effort between model and artist.”
“Traditionally, the depiction of the human body has been regarded as one of the greatest challenges for artists. Drawing from the life model has therefore been a core component of fine arts training.”
Sandra Chesterman – Figure Work
Exhibiting artists will include Eduardo Sanchez, Lyndsay Meager, Raymond Ramsay, Peter Howard, Charlotte Edwardes, Vern Tupper, Yolanda Whitehead, Sheryl Butler, Bruce Woods, Paul Dashwood , Jeanne Gagnière, Pamela Lim, Mary Ferguson, Elaine Grimman and Olivier Duhamel amongst others.
“We are hoping that this exhibition will inspire more local artists to join our group and try their hand at life drawing.” says Yolanda Whitehead, the group administrator.
Life Lines 2020 will be held at “small space” in [ s p a c e ] gallery courtyard and all are invited to attend the opening function on Friday 30 October at 6pm.
The Life Drawing Group wishes to thank their models for their skilled and graceful contribution.
Anyone, male or female of any age or body shape can model for life drawing. People interested in modelling can contact Yolanda Whitehead on 027 343 3803.
About the Catherine Mitchell Life Drawing Group
The Catherine Mitchell Life Drawing group meets twice a week on Monday evenings & Wednesday mornings. Life drawing is the practice of drawing from a live model, as opposed to drawing from a still life, or a landscape. The model is generally “undraped” except for the first Wednesday of each month which is a clothed portrait session. This is an untutored group.
Tables, chairs, lights and easels are provided. Simply bring your paper and pencil, charcoal, pastel or watercolours. This is an informal and friendly group. New members of all ability are welcome to call Yolanda Whitehead on 027 343 3803.
About the Catherine Mitchell Art Centre
The Catherine Mitchell Arts Centre, 32 Putiki road in Ostend, provides a work and meeting space for groups and practising arts and crafts people. There are two studios - one for fine arts – painting, etc and one for pottery. A third room houses the Bridge Club. Toastmasters, Writing.
Photography, Quilting, Spinning and Weaving also meet at the Centre. Each group has its allotted time and space. Membership is a $30 annual fee. Each group has its own structure. Tutors may book a room to run their classes. More information on www.cmartcentre.org.nz or see contact details for each group in Gulf News