DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR
West Gallery, Quay Arts
Sat 11th May – Sun 7th July 2024
A project encompassing a solo exhibition, artist residency and accompanying free interactive workshops.
Exhibition
Laura’s artistic expression is a tactile immersive process. Using music as an emotive trigger, Laura paints directly with her hands and fingertips, pressing, smearing and throwing thick globules of paint onto glass and paper surfaces.
Plates, panels and pages, once dry are meticulously scrutinised. Reflecting on the pigmented fingerprints, squiggles and smudges, Laura begins a therapeutic editing process, selecting marks to preserve and / or erase. The act of erasure becomes an integral part of her artistic ritual, as she seamlessly scrapes and polishes away certain elements, aiming to achieve a delicate balance within the realm of minimalism.
The abstract expressions created by Laura undergo a transformative journey as they are assembled into final compositions. The transparency of glass enables the layering up of marks, with the shadows cast between darkly painted marks considered integral components within her work, which is conceived in three-dimensions.
Paint, material, light, shadow, reflections, movement, and space, each element holding equal importance within the carefully curated assemblage.
DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR served as a reflective marker of Laura’s artistic progression, acknowledging the ten years since she embarked on her professional creative practice. The exhibition aspect of the project showcased a series of abstract glass and paper artworks, developed through the support of an Arts Council England DYCP grant and created in Laura’s studio in Ryde, on the Isle of Wight.
The exhibition, held in the island’s main multidisciplinary arts venue, provided Laura with the opportunity to present her works in a large, expansive, open space. This setting, allowed her to scale up her creations and develop new, ambitious projects with direct public engagement through the additional residency format. Through this added interaction, she could connect with audiences, build her network, and explore fresh ideas in the public realm.
Residency
Exposing the artistic process and closely connecting with audiences, Laura created new works in the gallery space throughout the duration of the project DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR. Being in the space and actively creating new works allowed Laura to engage directly with audiences, answering their questions and addressing their curiosities.
This interaction lifted the veil on the creative process, offering a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of an artist. Such transparency and real-time engagement are typically reserved for online platforms or remain hidden from public view. This unique opportunity provided visitors with an in-depth understanding of Laura's artistic methods and inspirations, making the exhibition an enriching and immersive experience for visitors and participants.
The Ritual series was conceived and created during Laura's time in the West Gallery. Utilising household paints she had to hand and sticks found in the garden, Laura repeatedly created swirling, rounded shapes. This motif, rendered in black and yellow, was applied to glass and paper surfaces. The process evolved into a ritual as Laura, immersed in music, became mesmerised by each drip of paint as she swirled it with speed. The final pieces are experimental, showcasing Laura's play with bands of color, layers, and shadows.
As new Ritual works were created, they were integrated into the exhibition. This organic process allowed the exhibition to evolve and expand in real-time, mirroring Laura's ongoing development as an artist. The exhibition's dynamic nature meant that visitors experienced it differently each time they returned, as it continuously changed, developed, and transformed. Audiences were kept informed through social media updates about Laura's presence in the space and the addition of new works. Laura's presence also provided a unique opportunity to personally promote and share the MAKE YOUR MARK workshops happening within the space.
DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR was not just a retrospective of Laura's work over the past ten years; it was a living, growing testament to her continuous artistic exploration and growth.
Workshops
Accompanying free workshops MAKE YOUR MARK responded to the exhibition, residency and Laura’s organic methods of painting. They explored mark making and abstraction as an expressive process, using art as a non-verbal tool for self expression.
Layers of paper were hung in a transitional space within the gallery, leading visitors into Laura's exhibition and residency. This installation not only set the stage for her work but also served as a backdrop for the workshops. Participants were encouraged to use everyday throwaway household items like packaging, toothbrushes, and tights, alongside natural objects such as sticks and seed heads. They were also invited to get messy and use their hands, mirroring Laura's own techniques in creating her paintings.
The workshops welcomed children and adults alike, guiding them to freely mark make, explore, play, get messy, and co-create with others. This hands-on approach encouraged a sense of community and creativity, allowing participants to engage deeply with the artistic process and discover new ways of self-expression with items they might find at home.
These workshops build upon Laura's previous experience developing and leading abstract mark-making sessions as a creative practitioner. Over time, she witnessed how these workshops could unlock self-expression and empower participants to realise their own ability to create art, regardless of experience. This realisation inspired her to create a dedicated space within her exhibition, offering others the opportunity to explore art freely and without constraints. By sharing the playful, uninhibited process she enjoys in her everyday practice, Laura aimed to provide participants with a sense of creative freedom and the confidence to express themselves through abstract art.
WORKING PRACTICE TESTIMONALS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
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Ian Whitmore, Arts Manager and Curator at Quay Arts. With a rich history in Youth Work and experience as a freelance practitioner/agent for creative partnerships.
Quay Arts were delighted to work with artist Laura Hathaway to support a solo show and associated programme of activity between 11 May - 7 July 2024.
The opportunity to work with Laura builds upon a relationship begun in 2014 when Laura benefitted from a QA studio residency programme, culminating in a joint exhibition with artist Howard Hardiman in 2015.
For Drip Splatter Smear Laura presented a large suite of recent and new works on glass and paper as well and creating an adjoining workshop space for families and school groups to explore abstract mark-making with paint using bespoke brushes and tools.
During the exhibition Laura delivered X2 creative workshops (family drop-in + School visit) and undertook her first professional artist crit Session, organised by IOW Creative Network and chaired by Alys Scott-Hawkins (a-n Artist Council member) discussing her practice with Island artists at QAC. Laura delivered a public performance (painting live to music) in the gallery to close the exhibition accompanied by a guided mark making activity for all ages.
In addition, Laura allocated an area within the exhibition to install materials and create new works that were displayed in a second solo exhibition off-site, in the town of Ryde.
Laura was given support at all times from the QAC Arts Team. Laura was professional throughout and pushed herself especially regards the artist crit session and live performance, representing a development in her practice; something she is keen to incorporate into her work going forwards.
In addition to staff support, QA provided Laura a materials bursary and free gallery hire for Drip Splatter Smear.
The exhibition was well received (evidenced by written gallery feedback / anecdotal conversation with visitors) attracting 2,895 visitors during the shows run.
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Hannah George, Quay Arts Education Manager. An experienced programmer, administrator and arts practitioner, Hannah has worked for the Local Authority, Island 200 and Quay Arts.
It has been exciting and refreshing having Laura’s Drip Splatter Smear exhibition and project residency at Quay Arts.
Her works were beautifully presented in the gallery space. They created a combination of serenity and an energy of movement (through her mark-making) which was captivating.
Laura converted the annex of the gallery into a community workshop space where members of the public – of all ages- could experiment with an array of natural and manmade ‘brushes’ to create their own expressive marks. This colourful, and inviting component in the exhibition space both complimented, contrasted and worked with her pieces – a free flow space filled with colour and ‘mess’ responding to visual repetition and monochrome artworks. Through a number of ‘drop in’ sessions’ the walls in the annex were covered with experimental and playful marks. Laura was also working in the gallery during the exhibition and changed and developed the artwork on display which encouraged repeated visits to the exhibition .
My personal highlight was Laura’s free live performance in the gallery where she created a large artwork to a music. This was moving and engaging. It transfixed the audience and, through illustrating the making process, gave them a broader perspective and greater understanding of the artworks.
Laura’s communication during the lead-up to the exhibition and throughout the residency was excellent. She managed the many varied components of the project extremely well and was always totally prepared and professional. The combination of premade exhibited pieces, work made during the exhibition, and then live interactions with the public, created a large body of work which was very well received by visitors.
Laura was highly professional and a pleasure to work with.
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Peta Rainford, Artswork’s placemaking creative producer for the Isle of Wight, Gosport and Havant. Facilitating the ‘Young Cultural Change Makers’ and ‘Supporting Young Minds’ programme .
I love working with Laura. There is quality and integrity in everything she does. She has been a fantastic collaborator in the youth-led projects we have worked on, being genuinely willing to listen to young people and allow creative freedom, whilst remaining true to her own practice. With her gentle approach, she creates a safe space for creative expression which supports the wellbeing of all those involved.
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Georgia Newman, Cultural Consultant and Creative Producer. Founder of the Isle of Wight Creave Network and Deputy Director for Creative Island – the development agency for culture on the Isle of Wight.
Over the years, it has been an absolute privilege to witness Laura Hathaway’s artistic journey. From her early residency at Jubilee Stores, to her continued successes, Laura has consistently shown remarkable growth as an artist. Her unique vision has flourished since her time at Falmouth University. Laura’s residency under the Jubilee Stores ‘Start Up Studio Program,’ funded by Arts Council England, marked the beginning of an impressive trajectory on the Isle of Wight, including her first solo exhibition at K6 Gallery in Southampton and significant recognition through being shortlisted for the Jerwood Artist Bursary Award.
Her ability to draw inspiration from her surroundings, as seen in her recent large-scale community mural in Ryde, IW exemplifies her dedication to connecting with and reflecting local heritage. Beyond her own practice, Laura has made a profound impact through her extensive work with diverse communities - from her workshops for children and young adults to her creative sessions with rehabilitation centres and refugee projects.
It’s been wonderful to see her confidence grow, along with her artistic voice, which is always evolving. As a member of the Isle of Wight Creative Network, Laura is not only a talented artist but a generous contributor to our local creative ecosystem. I have no doubt her continued work will inspire many more to engage with art in new and meaningful ways.
DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR
Visitor Responses
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When I came to the exhibition for the first time, it felt quite strange, as I had never seen anything like this before. However, spending some time I found it very interesting. My favourite painting was ‘’The Heart Beat’’, which is 3D, and I tried to do a digital animation of it, which was very enjoyable. The most exciting part of the exhibition was watching Laura’s live painting with music accompaniment. It gave more insight and understanding how her masterpieces were created and the performance was absolutely amazing! I would love to watch more!
Jane Newman, Isle of Wight artist
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Fascinating work, intriguing use of media and very enjoyable work. Great to be able to chat to Laura".
Bibi Atkinson, Isle of Wight artist
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I was so drawn to your work I just kept coming back at every opportunity. My daughter had such a brilliant time in the mark making space, pure freedom! Thank you.
Gemma Whitehead
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I like the simplicity of this exhibition and how the artist has found beauty in creating a mess essentially.
Betty George, age 16
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I would have enjoyed hearing the music that you played while painting these - maybe via headphones to enjoy the immersion of each piece.
Jane H
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Very good! We enjoyed the exhibition: it made us think of dancing, movement and emotional. It would be really good for partially sighted people because they are such strong clear images........Back for another visit! "I see a beach" "It reminds me of cricket wicket" "deforestation" "washing machines" we all experienced it differently!
Active Living Creatives - adults with learning disabilities, Riverside Centre
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What!
Anonymous
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An exhilarating breathe of fresh air and so wonderful to see the culmination of years of progressive work.
Fran Farr, Isle of Wight artist
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Randomisation and choice. Love it!
Ron Peplae, Basingstoke
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"You could do this"....."It's not about that....it's the intent. I could do this, but I don't have the intent."
Anonymous, overheard conversation in the gallery space
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AMAZING WORK. Good to see young ISLAND ARTISTS HERE!
Steven Croad
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Fantastic innovative exhibition, keep 'splishing'!
Violet Mareck, Isle of Wight artist
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'Ten' Is my favourite. I'm lost in the scale and love how it commands the room and feels like cells splitting over and over again.
Daisy Grensted
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Expressive emotive work, will go far!
Gloria Bonsfield, Huddersfield
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Sorry I just don't 'GET' it?
DK
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Fascinating, who would think Black and White could say so much! Really enjoyed the journey.
Veronica Brown, Isle of Wight
MAKE YOUR MARK
Free Family Drop-in Workshops
Free Drop-in Workshops
A series of abstract mark-making sessions took place during DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR in a messy space created by Laura in the West Gallery, Quay Arts.
The workshops stemmed from Laura's desire to share her artistic techniques and offer everyone the chance to engage with paint in a playful, expressive manner, similar to her own practice. Inspired by the exhibition, residency, and her organic painting methods, the free workshops focused on mark-making and abstraction as tools for non-verbal self-expression.
Laura transformed a section of the gallery into a vibrant, messy environment, suspending layers of paper in a transitional area that guided visitors from her main exhibition into a space for creative exploration.
Open to both children and adults, the workshops encouraged free expression, exploration, and co-creation. Participants were invited to repurpose everyday household items, such as packaging, toothbrushes, and old tights, alongside natural objects like sticks and seed heads, turning them into unique painting tools. Under Laura's guidance, they explored abstract techniques, including smearing, flicking, and dripping paint, emulating her style. While some participants took their creations home, most left them to be displayed and reworked by others.
These workshops allowed participants to connect with Laura’s artistic process and explore new avenues for self-expression using everyday materials. Emphasizing experimentation and the uninhibited flow of creativity, participants co-created artworks by integrating familiar objects with playful paint techniques.
MAKE YOUR MARK
Free Family Drop-in Responses
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Zoe age 12
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Just being able to splatter paint wherever but not having to worry if anything got dirty.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
There was a great assortment of different materials to choose from. I particularly enjoyed using the spray bottles.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes because I could take inspiration from how other people were using equipment.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Creative and satisfying. It was good to express ‘free movement’.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
Yes definitely.
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Isobel age 8
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Flicking.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
My hands and flicking.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes!
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Silly and happy and bouncy.
Would you like to get messy with paint again
Yes!!!!!!!
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Natalie age 40
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Unleashing the inner child.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
It was a wonderful experience, exploring different textures, to work with.
Did you like making art with other people?
It was a beautiful space to get curious, involve, music and be inspired by others creativity.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Joyful.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
It was a great form of therapy - great way to be present.
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Anonymous age 8
What did you enjoy most about painting?
It was fun and free.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
The water balloon.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes it was nice.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Great.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
YES.
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Jane age 49
What did you enjoy most about painting?
It made me happy.
Did you like using different and unusual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
I really enjoyed painting using a piece of cardboard, a wooden spoon, and a stick. It gives wonderful textures and helps loosen up.
Did you like making art with other people?
It was very interesting to watch other people painting, as it gives you more ideas and inspiration.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Making abstract art gives you more freedom, as there is no particular expectation how your art will turn up. You can be creative without worrying about the end result.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
I would love to!
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Olive age 9
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Making a mess.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
Painting with hands and experimenting with different ideas.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes because I like sharing my ideas.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Happy and relaxed.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
Yes.
MAKE YOUR MARK
Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary School
Free Primary School Workshop
Laura and Quay Arts were approached by Gemma Whitehead, a teacher from Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary School, after she attended a free family drop-in event MAKE YOUR MARK with her primary aged daughter.
A visit was organised, and Laura, with the support of the Quay Arts team, facilitated a 90 minute session for a class of 24 Year 4 students aged 8-9.
The children were encouraged to explore the exhibition independently. Laura discussed the artworks and demonstrated the method behind her current project developed in the space, Ritual. Laura dipped her garden stick in paint making swirling motions on paper, the group were really interested in the process and asked lots of questions. Laura talked to the children about how they too could create art using found objects around them.
The session was organised into rotating activities, allowing children to engage in smaller groups. This approach ensured that each child received more focused attention and could fully participate, enhancing their overall experience.
Workshop Overview
Creating Mark-Making Tools: The children made tools from household items that would usually be thrown away after use such as: cleaning sponges, disposable wooden cutlery, eco-cleaning bottles, cardboard packaging, textured materials, and sticks. They were then encouraged to experiment with these tools to make various marks, with minimal instructions, allowing for playful and messy creativity with paint and materials.
Collaborative Drawing: A long sheet of paper was spread out in the gallery space, along with coloured pens attached to long sticks, pencils, and colourful felt-tips. The children were free to create their artwork collaboratively, without any specific instructions on what to draw or what colours to use. They were encouraged to be as creative as they liked, with staff available for support.
Enzo Circles: The children learned about Enzo circles and experimented with black ink, responding to the circular forms in the exhibition. They tried different combinations of making a circle and finished trying to make a perfect circle in one motion.
The children were all really engaged in the exhibition space, demonstrations, and abstract activities. Some were lively, energetic, and loud, while others were more quiet and reflective. The staff also seemed to genuinely enjoy participating alongside the children, taking the opportunity to express themselves just as much as the young people did.
MAKE YOUR MARK
Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary School Responses
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Anonymous age 9
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Throwing paint at the wall.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
Yes, I think the roller with the little balls on was the most fun.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes and no, I would rather it was either me or me and one other person.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Like I can enjoy it.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
Yes.
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Anonymous age 9
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Drawing art with friends.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
Yes I loved the spray.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes cause you get to share ideas.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Happy.
Would you like to get messy with paint again
Yes.
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Anonymous age 9
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Being in the 'Make your Mark' room.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
Yes the spray bottles.
Did you like making art with other people?
No because everyone kept ruining my picture.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Calm.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
Yes but in different clothes.
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Anonymous age 9 almost 10!
What did you enjoy most about painting?
Making the tools.
Did you like using different and usual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
Yes the rollers.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes because it was fun.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Enjoyable.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
Yes.
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Anonymous age 9
What did you enjoy most about painting?
The painting part of all we did.
Did you like using different and unusual things to paint with? Which was the most fun?
Yes making mess.
Did you like making art with other people?
Yes it was very fun.
How did making abstract art make you feel?
Happy calm.
Would you like to get messy with paint again?
Yes of course.
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Quay Arts Evaluation Form Teacher Response
Name of School:: Freshwater and Yarmouth CE Primary
Date of visit: 05/07/24
Duration of visit: 90 minutes
Number of school staff attending: 2 staff, 2 parent volunteers
Number of students taking part with additional needs: 5
Number of ethnic minority students attending: 2
Please rate the quality of your schools visit to Quay Arts: 5 (excellent)
What did you like best about your visit?
The range of complimentary activities as well as the workshop itself. Wonderful blend of excitement, freedom and relaxation.
What activities/workshops did you complete during your visit?
Laura Hathaway's Drip Splatter Smear workshop making brushes and creating work using these techniques, as well as abstract mark making and Japanese Enzo circles activity.
Were the activities/workshops engaging and appropriate for your student's year group?
Yes. Absolutely spot on! Great range and organisation. Every child could access them and were fully engaged throughout.
Did the visit fit well alongside your school's curriculum?
Extremely well. Wonderful links to knowledge of artists, drawing, painting, mark making skills, artist concepts and practices.
As a member of school staff, did you take part in the activities/workshops provided? If so, what were you doing and what were your thoughts?
Yes I did, as did all the other adults, we were all creative and doing exactly what the children were doing. Adults reported having a great time, relaxing and engaging.
Do you think anything could have been done differently?
We all wanted to stay for longer!
Would you consider more school trips with Quay Arts in the future?
Yes.
Evolving Activities During DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR
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'Kids Art' Session
Quay Arts artist facilitator Lucia Para guided a group of young people aged 8-12 through an exploration of the exhibition, focusing on the concept of negative space.
As they delved into the works, the group expressed curiosity about how negative space could be transparent, sparking a lively discussion. One piece in particular led them to wonder if what they were viewing might represent a hat, showing their creative interpretation of abstract forms. The students also perceived the paper works as doodles, drawing connections between the spontaneous, flowing nature of the artwork and their own informal mark-making experiences.
This exploration not only introduced them to an important artistic concept but also encouraged them to view and interpret art through their own imaginative lens.
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'Youth Art' Session
Caroline Underwood lead a visit with the Quay Arts Youth Art Session with young people aged 12 - 15. The session began with a tour of the exhibition, where the group engaged with the artwork through thoughtful discussion. One student, in particular, was drawn to an asymmetrical piece, describing it as reminiscent of a waterfall.
The students then moved into the creative space at the end of the exhibition, where they experimented with mark-making. Inspired by the prompts, props, and materials provided, they explored various techniques, including waterfall-inspired dripping effects.
Caroline went on to introduce them to traditional brushwork exercises rooted in ancient Chinese ink painting. With these newly learned techniques, the students selected individual themes for their work, ranging from nature-inspired subjects to architectural designs. Caroline also guided them through mindful, meditative mark-making based on the principles of enso painting. As part of this practice, the group experimented with "water writing" on a large scroll of water-writing cloth, observing how the wet marks faded over time, linking the experience to the ancient meditative tradition of writing with water on stones.
The group created lots of experimental work exploring abstract patterns, fluid lines, bold brushstrokes, delicate lines, and circular forms to representations of landscapes, architecture, and figures. Each piece reflected the students' personal engagement with the materials, exercises and the exhibition.
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Isle of Wight Creative Network Crit Session
Laura was selected by the Isle of Wight Creative Network to participate in a crit session, facilitated by Portsmouth-based artist support mentor Alys Scott Hawkins.
The session, held in the gallery space, brought together local creatives to engage with Laura’s work through the structured "Critical Response Process" format developed by dance artist Liz Lerman. This method encouraged thoughtful feedback and dialogue, allowing for constructive and supportive critique.
The session was further enriched by the involvement of Quay Arts manager and curator Ian Whitmore, education officer Hannah George, and IWCN founder Georgia Newman, all of whom contributed their expertise to foster a deeper understanding of the work and its potential. Participants were invited to share their perspectives, drawing on their diverse backgrounds in the arts, which sparked lively discussions and innovative ideas.
This collaborative environment not only enhanced the critique process but also cultivated a sense of community among the attendees. The gathering provided an invaluable opportunity for Laura to refine her practice with insight from a supportive network of artists and mentors.
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Arch Window Gallery Exhibition
Laura was invited to showcase her work at the Arch Window Gallery by local artists and curators Jan Frith and Violet Mareck. This cross-promotional exhibition ran concurrently with "Drip Splatter Smear" for four weeks, featuring new pieces that Laura created during her residency in the gallery space.
Transported and displayed at the Arch Window Gallery, these works took on a new life in an environment defined by its striking glass windows.
The new works evolved further as glass, paper and paint interacted with the surrounding street. The environment became equal to the paintings themselves. Buildings reflected into the space, shadows of people passing by penetrated the surfaces and the ever-changing light of day and night shifted shapes and movement throughout.
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Rollerskating Movement Response
After viewing the exhibition, 16-year-old Betty George, in a quiet and reflective moment, asked if she could roller-skate in the space as a way to engage with and respond to the artworks. Her request was an unexpected yet intuitive reaction, blending movement with art appreciation.
By roller-skating through the exhibition, Betty sought to physically immerse herself in the space, allowing the fluidity of her movements to echo the energy of the pieces around her. This unique form of interaction added a dynamic layer to the experience, as she used her body and rhythm to interpret the art in a deeply personal and spontaneous way, blurring the lines between viewer, performer, and the art itself.
"I liked skating around the artwork. It was unusual, but nice being surrounded by artwork. I’m in the moment when I skate. I’ve never skated in the gallery before I wanted to because of the smooth surface and that it would be quiet. Me and my mum noticed the ‘X’ marks and I did some skating moves that were like ‘X’s to connect to the artwork".
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Performance
Laura created artwork as a live performance held in the gallery space during the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival weekend.
The process involved her reacting emotionally to music playing in the background. She used a stick, which she dipped into paint, and then swirled and moved it across the paper. This method allowed her to translate her emotional responses into visible marks on the paper. The performance aspect added a unique layer of interaction and immediacy, as the audience could witness the evolution of the artwork in real-time, observing how the music influenced each stroke and movement.
Post DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR Activities
Quay Arts Free Family Drop-in Workshops: Abstract Collages and Sculptures - October Half Term 2024
These two family workshops at Quay Arts invited participants of all ages to transform abstract painted papers from the ‘Drip Splatter Smear’ workshops into imaginative collages and 3D sculptures. In a welcoming, open-ended format, families reused these painted marks, created fresh ones, and experimented with various techniques such as cutting, folding, crimping, and gluing, as they explored different shapes, forms, and layers.
The workshops drew a diverse group, from children as young as three years old to grandparents, all of whom joined in the creative process. For many families, it was a collaborative experience where children, parents, and grandparents worked side by side or even co-created their pieces, sharing ideas, materials, and approaches. The atmosphere was lively, with each family bringing a unique perspective, transforming the space into a colorful hive of artistic exploration. Several families who had previously attended the 'Make Your Mark' sessions returned for these workshops, bringing with them the painted paper they had originally created, which they repurposed into new collages and sculptures.
Participants were encouraged to engage with abstract art in a free, non-judgmental setting. Through layering and combining painted elements, they experimented with new shapes and compositions, finding joy in the spontaneous and expressive nature of abstract art. The sessions invited everyone to connect with art on a personal level, expressing themselves visually without the need for words or predefined forms.
This open approach nurtured a strong sense of creative freedom and accomplishment. Parents noted that the workshops sparked their children’s creativity and imagination, while many adults enjoyed having dedicated time to slow down and be creative themselves. The experience inspired participants to continue exploring abstract art at home, highlighting the workshops’ impact as a source of inspiration and connection for the whole family.
Daisy Webb, Isle of Wight College Year 1 Art Student: “On Monday me and my friend went to Quay Arts, we were welcomed by Laura Hathaway who explained what we can do and she showed us her example of what we could do. The workshop was really good and my friend has never done art and she had fun making art work. Overall me and my friend completed five abstract collages and had a lot of fun. I was very happy to see my artwork posted on the Quay Arts Instagram story”.
Hannah George, Quay Arts Education Manager: “I thought the session went really well. Participants of all ages engaged and, whilst the session was very full there was a wonderful calm busyness to it. Re-using the ‘left over’ paint splattered papers was excellent. The paper comes with an energy and interest embedded in it and it’s a conscientious way to use materials. We had many family groups stay for 1-2hours + . You created a welcoming and inviting atmosphere”.
Quay Arts Feedback: Two free drop-in collage workshops, led by Laura Hathaway and supported by Daisie Rich, Alicia, and Hannah, took place on October 21st and 28th, 2024, from 10 am to 1 pm in the Seminar Room. With a combined attendance of 26 adults and 40 children, the workshops attracted a diverse group, including returning participants from Laura’s previous Drip Splatter Smear events and school visits. Families actively participated, with adults and children creating collages together, and some stayed for extended periods, even dining in the cafe afterward. Notably, two students from IW College attended both sessions after learning about the workshops through a recent college visit by the Arts Team. During the October 28th session, materials were reused sustainably, with scraps from the collages saved for future workshops and eco-friendly paints and cardboard upcycled from household waste and a printing factory in Birmingham. The atmosphere was lively yet calm, allowing families to explore art and engage in a community-oriented, environmentally conscious activity.
