DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR
Quay Arts Isle of Wight
May 7th - July 7th 2024
DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR
Free Workshops
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 workshops were a key part of Laura's first major solo exhibition and residency, held at Quay Arts, the Isle of Wight’s leading multidisciplinary art space (May - July 2024). 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.
DRIP SPLATTER SMEAR
Free Workshop 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.
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Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary student 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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Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary student 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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Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary student age 9
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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Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary student 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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Freshwater and Yarmouth Primary student age 9
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.
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.
Laura Hathaway CV
Isle of Wight Artist
BA Hons Textile Design Falmouth University
Bronze and Silver Arts Award Trained
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Solo / Group Exhibitions
2024
The Essence of Matter, Art Space Portsmouth, Portsmouth October 21st - 28th
Solo Drip Splatter Smear, Michael West Gallery, Quay Arts, Newport
Drip Splatter Smear, Arch Window Gallery, Ryde
2023
WISH YOU WERE HERE, Peer Studios, Ventnor
The Other Art Fair, West Handyside Canopy Kings Cross, London
2021
Solo I Grow, Arch Window Gallery, Ryde
Studio Opening, Riboleau Studios, Ryde
2020
Hullabaloo at Home, Online
2019
NONSENSE, Ventnor
2018
P. Clay Co Winter Exhibition, Ryde
P. Clay Co Summer Exhibition, Ryde
2017
IM IN THE GARDEN, Depository, Ryde
2016
Seeds, Depozitory, Ryde
2015
Outdoor Ideas, Maisha Garden, Kampala
South Central, Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth
2014
NOISE Festival Showcase, Online
Line & Shade, Michael West Gallery - Quay Arts, Newport
Psychogeography, The Arthub Gallery, London
Self, Michael West Gallery - Quay Arts, Newport
2013
DUET, Michael West Gallery - Quay Arts, Newport
The Chalk Talks, St Thomas’ Heritage Centre, Ryde
Freedom’s Road, Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth
6x6, Rochester Contemporary Art Gallery, New York
Synesthesia, Darnley Gallery, London
2012
Inroads, Vyner Street Gallery, London
A Change of Art, The Tallet, Cirencester
Paintings of Plenty, The Tallet, Cirencester
The Knitting and Stitching Show Graduate Showcase, Alexandra Palace, London
2011
New Designers, Islington Business Design Centre, London
An Evening Untitled, The Poly, Falmouth
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Artist Residencies
2024
Drip Splatter Smear, Quay Arts, Newport
2022
Ryde Arts Residency, Department, Ryde
2018
Jo Hummel Studio Residency, Ryde
2015
Xavier Project Artist Residency, Kampala
2015
The Tallet Research Residency, Gloucestershire
2014
Quay Arts Start Up Studio Residency, Isle of Wight
2012
The Tallet Residency, Gloucestershire
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Public Commissions
Upcoming
Commissioned by Artswork to facilitate creative sessions with the Youth Justice Team young people to co-produce a mural for the ceiling of a police holding cell for young people in Newport Police Station.
2024
Selected by lead artist Alice Malia as part of a team of artists facilitating the creation of a large scale mural on the Columbine Building in East Cowes. Supported by Arts Council England’s National Lottery Grants, Forestry England and the Isle of Wight Council.
St Mary’s Sensory Garden
Comissioned by Artswork in partnership with St Mary’s Hospital. A collaboration with young people from the Isle of Wight NHS Trust Youth Forum to design and create a sensory garden space in the children’s ward of the hospital.
Shaping Newport
Commissioned by Carisbrooke and Newport Community Council to design a piece of artwork to be printed on a series of flags around Newport High Street.
2023
Supporting Young Minds
Commissioned artist over a year to run a series of workshops and to create a number of place changing pieces of public art with young people by Independent Arts; supported by The Island Collection, IW CEP, Isle of Wight AONB, Artswork, University of Sussex and National Lottery Grants.
Alongside assisting with the curation of an exhibition showcasing the young peoples art in response to the project.
2023
Little London carpark mural
Supporting Young Minds extension, Independent Arts / AONB Partnership collaboration, Newport
Chain Lane mural on boards
Supporting Young Minds extension, Independent Arts / Youth Offending Team collaboration, Newport
2022
Wadhams building window mural
Newport bus station mural
Stainless Games building window mural
Supporting Young Minds, Independent Arts, Newport
www.youtube.com/brucewebbvideo
www.artswork.org.uk/supportingyoungminds
www.independentarts.org.uk/aonbmural
www.independentarts.org.uk/supportingyoungminds
2022
No Ball Games, Ryde
Commissioned by Ryde Business Association, Ryde Arts and the Heritage Action Zone; funded by ACE Jubilee Fund and the Isle of Wight and Hampshire Trust to create a piece of public art.
2017
Disorder II, Ryde illuminated carnival, Ryde
An installation commissioned by Jo Hummel-Newell and Ryde Arts, the piece was displayed and transported through Ryde illuminated carnival.
2016
Disorder, K6 Gallery, Southampton
Commissioned by K6 Gallery Laura was invited to transform the windows of the gallery located in a phone box in the centre of Southampton. ‘Disorder’ explores the visual language of marks.
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Awards/ Funding
2024
Quay Arts exhibition bursary
2023
Awarded fully funded photoshoot with photographer Julian Winslow by the Isle of Wight Creative Network
2022
Awarded fully funded photoshoot with photographer Julian Winslow by the Isle of Wight Creative Network
2021
Awarded ACE ‘DYCP’ fund
Awarded ACE Emergency Response fund
2018
Nominated and shortlisted as an exceptional early-career artist by Jerwood Charitable Trust
2017
Shortlisted for the Jerwood Artist Bursary award
2015
Shortlisted for the South-Central prize
2014
Awarded ACE exhibition funding
Awarded ‘Start up Studio’ by Quay Arts, funded by ACE
2013
Selected for the 'Isle Work' business start-up mentoring scheme
2011
Shortlisted for the Textile Study Group ‘Graduate of the Year’ award
2010
Bill Hill and John Lewis design competition winner
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Workshops / Classes / Projects
Upcoming
Art Facilitator Lead, Newport Police Station, Youth Justice Team and Artswork
Art Facilitator Lead, Quay Arts, free family drop-in, young people and adults, ages 5 +
2024
Art Facilitator Lead, St Mary’s Hospital Childrens Ward Garden, Newport, NHS Youth Trust Forum, ages 13 - 18
Art Facilitator Lead, Drip Splatter Smear workshops, young people and adults, Quay Arts, ages 5 +
Art Facilitator Lead, Drip Splatter Smear workshop, Freshwater Primary School, Quay Arts, Newport, year 4, ages 8-9
2023
Art Facilitator Lead, Youth Offending Team, Independent Arts, Newport, young people in disadvantaged communities, ages 13 - 16
Art Facilitator Lead, Supporting Young Minds, Independent Arts, Newport, young people in disadvantaged communities. ages 13 - 20
2022
Art Facilitator Lead, Ryde Arts abstract workshop, The Department, Ryde, children and adults, ages 10 +
Art Facilitator Lead, Supporting Young Minds, Independent Arts, Newport, young people in disadvantaged communities, ages 13 - 20
Art Facilitator Co-Lead, Riboleau Studio’s Art Club, Ryde, homeschool collective, ages 7 - 12
2018
Art Facilitator Lead, Children's Literary Festival, Quay Arts, children, young people and adults, ages 4 +
Art Facilitator Lead, Ventnor Fringe Festival, Ventnor Park, children, young people and adult festival goers, ages 6 +
2017
Art Facilitator, Cardboard Castle, Isle of Wight Festival, Newport, children and adult festival goers, ages 3 +
Art Facilitator, St Pauls CE Primary School, Portsmouth, year 4 primary children, ages 8 - 9
2016
Art Facilitator, Cardboard Castle, Bestival, Ryde, children and adult festival goers, ages 3 +
2015
Volunteer Art Facilitator Lead, Xavier Project, Uganda, refugee children, ages 5 - 19
2014
Art Technician and Classroom Support Staff, St Georges SEN School, Newport, children with additional needs and disabilities, ages 12 - 19
2012
Volunteer Art Facilitator, The Nelson Trust, Stroud, addiction rehabilitation centre, ages 18 +
Volunteer Art Facilitator, Scrubditch Care Farm, North Cerney, adults with learning difficulties, ages 18 +
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Publications/ Press
2024
St Mary's Garden Opening, Sep online
www.islandecho.co.uk/childrens-ward
Columbine Mural Reveal, Aug online
www.countypress.co.uk/theeaglehaslanded
Columbine Mural Launch, April online
www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire
Ryde Arts Trail information, March online
2023
Style of Wight, artist feature Nov/Dec issue
www.styleofwight.co.uk/artistfeature
Creative Island cultural strategy brochure, November
On the Wight ‘Wish you were Here’ exhibition overview, July online
www.onthewight.com/wishyouwerehere
2022
Ryde Arts, window residency overview, April online
www.rydearts.org/windowresidency
2019
Made in Mind Magazine, artist interview, February issue
www.madeinmindmagazine.com/laurahathawayinterview
2018
On the Wight, open studios overview, July online
2017
Ryde Arts, Ryde Arts Festival exhibition overview, June online
On the Wight, ‘Grow’ exhibition overview, July online
www.onthewight/rydeartsfestival
2016
Art Rabbit, ‘Disorder’ exhibition overview, July online
www.artrabbit.com/events/disorder
2014
On the Wight, ‘Line and Shade’ exhibition overview, April online
On The Wight, ‘Line and Shade’ gallery talk overview, May online