ABScraft

Alison Bailey Smith and Sanna King invite you to a free 2-hour workshop exploring the art of papier mache. 

In this workshop, you will learn the techniques and principles of papier mache to create some pieces inspired by the work of the late Ron Gittins.

Ron believed anything and everything could be used to create his artwork and saved all sorts of materials for this purpose. Newspapers and magazines not only inspired him but were a free/cheap and readily available resource. He created life size models of Roman centurions and sculpted classical heads of historical figures using cardboard, TV magazines and pages torn from local papers. He would decorate them with paint, but would leave some of the writing and photos uncovered, which meant each piece told many stories. 

Bring your copies of Wirral Globe or the Echo and rip them up, slosh on some wallpaper paste and cover a balloon. We will provide the balloons, and the glue. Dress in your scruffs and be prepared to get a little messy.

We will have lots of materials for you to use, but feel free to bring your own paper-based materials to use in your creations. 

This event is perfect for individuals who are interested in learning new skills and exploring their creativity, regardless of their skill level. 

Whether you prefer to work independently or collaboratively, this workshop will provide you with the opportunity to create a piece that will be part of the ongoing ‘Inspired By Ron’s Place’ exhibition at Future Yard until the end of May and will also be featured in the first Wirral MakeFest in June. 

During this first workshop, you will begin by creating basic shapes and forms that can become masks, mini sculptures or even be part of a bigger collobarative sculpture based on the lost Totems from the entrance to Ron’s Place.

The session will be guided by Alison and Sanna, who will be on hand to provide assistance and answer any questions you may have. Join us for an afternoon of creativity and fun as we dive into the world of paper mache and pay homage to the unique and inspiring world of Ron Gittins.

There will be further workshops to continue making the sculptures both at Future Yard and Wirral MakeFest (3rd of June 2023), which you are welcome to come along to. However you don’t have to commit to more than one session unless you want to. 

You can also take your creation away with you to finish off at home, but it might still be a little soggy at the end of the session. So be careful how you carry it!