2009 Media Releases

Art Class in the Bush

22 April 2009

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1pm to 4pm, Sunday 3 May
Location to be confirmed on booking
Cost: $25 (includes afternoon tea)

Local artist Debbie Mackinnon sketching in the bush with her left hand, even though she is right handed. This keeps her work lively and fresh – and often moving in unexpected ways Through the Mangroves by Debbie Mackinnon

Join renowned local artist Debbie Mackinnon for an enjoyable, creative and peaceful afternoon in the bush at Willoughby City Council’s bush landscape painting outdoor workshop 1pm to 4pm, Sunday 3 May.

Participants can create their own personal artistic response to the bush and will be free to explore a range of artistic styles under the guidance of Debbie.

Debbie Mackinnon is a contemporary painter whose works hover between landscape and abstraction. Her work is built around a fascination with the impermanence of landscape; the ebb and flow of the tide, the erosion of rock with weather and water, the changing light throughout the day and the season. She continues to be inspired by the light and colours of Australia, including those in the Willoughby area.

“It’s great to have so many beautiful and inspiring bush areas to enjoy in Willoughby. We are so lucky to be surrounded by the trees, water and rocks that shape our unique Australian landscape. I can get 'away' and be close to nature, even though we live in the city,” said artist Debbie Mackinnon.

“Although I will be in the role of the teacher, I’m hoping to learn a lot from the participants. Come along with an open mind, prepared to have a fresh look at the landscape and the will to experiment to create your own unique bush inspired artwork. We aim to have fun, try out visual ideas and not to be judgmental,” she said.

Willoughby Mayor, Pat Reilly suggests that residents of all artistic abilities are welcome to join in the workshop.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the bush. We’re very lucky to have Debbie to run this outdoor workshop and I’d encourage anyone in our community whether they have an artistic bone or not, to come along, learn some new skills and receive guidance from an inspiring artist,” said Willoughby Mayor, Pat Reilly.

The cost is $25 which includes afternoon tea and a variety of materials to use in artworks. Further details regarding the location and what to bring will be advised upon booking.

Bookings are essential, phone 9777 7755.

Media Contact
Media and Marketing Group Manager
Phone: 9777 7703
Mobile: 0421 492 757
Email: rebecca.hill@willoughby.nsw.gov.au