In celebration of International Women’s Day 2021, we’re unveiling a brand new digital festival championing female artists.
Running from 22nd – 31st March, ‘Women in the Arts’ will feature a selection of digital workshops led by female artists and practitioners from both the visual and performing arts. It follows an extensive online programme of activities from QPAC during 2020, and leads towards the Centre re-opening to the public later this year.
The festival begins with a session in pottery led by Anna Hayward on 22nd March, followed by classes in creative writing with Claire Steele (23rd) and drawing technique with Leila Ward (25th). Anna Hayward first discovered her love of pottery attending – and later tutoring – classes at QPAC, with a passion for ceramics that combine sculpture with functionality. Claire Steele is a published author and experienced tutor who has led writers’ retreats all over the world, whilst Leila Ward is a graduate of the Loughborough University School of Art and Design.
On 29th March there will be a session in drama led by Erika Sanderson, who trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and has three decades of experience as a workshop leader. 30th March sees workshops in collage and pastel drawing, tutored by Salina Jane and Lindsey Baldwin respectively. Salina is a London-born artist of Indo-Caribbean heritage, who trained in Fine Art printmaking. Cheshire-based artist Lindsey holds a degree in Illustration and Design and has over twelve years’ experience delivering art lessons face-to-face and online. The festival ends on 31st March with a session in watercolours led by Leila Ward.
“We’re delighted to be celebrating the inspirational creativity of these talented and hard-working women,” says QPAC’s artistic director Sarah Lewis. “The affordable online sessions will be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the artists and their work, as well as teaching students some new skills – they’re perfect for complete beginners and practiced hands alike.”
‘Women in the Arts – A Digital Festival’ runs from 22nd-31st March. All workshops featured in the festival will be on sale from 9th March.