Artist in Focus: Emily Carr – Paint Forests Full of Life
Tutor: Rachel Moore, print artist
Welcome to Artist in Focus! A series of relaxed monthly art sessions with VVH print maker and artist, Rachel Moore. Rachel introduces a mix of well-known and lesser-known artists working in painting, printmaking, textiles and sculpture.
In each session, Rachel explores a different artist’s story and work before leading three short, creative exercises inspired by the artist’s style. These sessions are all about loosening up, building on your knowledge, experimenting with new techniques and filling your sketch book with fresh ideas. Rachel finishes each session with a focused activity to explore on your own, helping you develop your skills, and spark new ways of thinking about art.
Perfect for all levels, Artist in Focus is for anyone looking to give art a go, explore new techniques, expand their skills and knowledge, and fill their sketch book with fresh ideas.
In this session, we’re celebrating National Tree Week (22 – 30 November) through the eyes of Canadian multidisciplinary artist Emily Carr, whose swirling forests and bold brushstrokes captured the life and energy of the natural world.
Deeply inspired by the wild landscapes and towering trees of British Columbia, Carr painted forests not just as scenery, but as living, spiritual places. Join us as we look at her work and try a few quick exercises inspired by her expressive style, full of movement, rhythm, and colour.
Preparation
Prepare your materials and find a sturdy table or floor to work on.
Video time
30 minutes
- Sketching pencil – 2B, 4B or 6B
- Paper or card – you will need thick paper like watercolour paper, cardboard (even from the recycling bin) or lining wallpaper
- Acrylic paints, poster paints or coloured chalk pastels
- Medium and large paint brush (if using paint)
The idea isn’t to buy lots of new equipment but to use what you have!
