As a continuation of the exciting launch of the Junior Art Centre, the art department this week focused on inspiring students by working with a visiting artist who specialises in coloured pencils. Additionally, students gained a fascinating introduction to the multi-sensory public artworks of  Singapore through a presentation given by Art Outreach Singapore.

Inspired by visiting colourist artist Ms. Vivienne’s beautiful animal portraits, (Ms. Vivienne is a professional artist, a former Tanglin parent and staff). The Year 5 and Year 6 students immersed themselves in the skilful art of using coloured pencils. They explored the subtlety of using coloured pencils to create shading effects through a technique known as scumbling, which involves repeated loose pencil marks. This is a drawing technique where tonal values and textures are created by drawing small, overlapping circles in a freeform circular pattern. The students enjoyed creating close-up coloured pencil drawings of dogs' and cats' eyes. In addition, Ms Vivienne practically explained the technique of creating translucent layers of colours (similar to glazing in painting) to add vibrancy to the eye colours, where base colours ‘shine’ through additional translucent layers, with the children enjoying this new technique in their lovely drawings.

Art Outreach's visit to the Year 4 Unit on Thursday was not just a presentation, but an interactive experience that engaged the children in a fun and informative way. The presentation covered various public artworks in Singapore, including the symbolic meaning of the Merlion at Fullerton Road, the kinetic energy of the Cloud Nine raining installation, and the Sounds Silver Ball 24-hour sculpture. The children were inspired to look, think, and wonder at the diverse public artworks of Singapore. These activities sparked creativity and enhanced children’s understanding of art and culture—an exciting addition to a week of inspirational art, wonder, and discovery.

Peter Hinckley
Head of Art & Design