East Ayrshire kids create new artwork for schools

Jul 25 2008 By Lisa Stewart

CHILDREN from four East Ayrshire primaries had the opportunity to work with an internationally recognised artist to create new artwork for their schools.

Local artist Eoghann MacColl worked with young people from Dunlop, Kilmaurs, Lainshaw and Nether Robertland primaries over a period of three months.

Each group of pupils came up with their own idea for a site-specific work of art for their school, celebrating their local area and heritage.

They then went out with Eoghann in all weathers, researching, taking photos and making sketches. Pupils had the opportunity to experience a range of artistic techniques using a variety of materials and worked as teams to produce the artwork for each school.

Eoghann MacColl lives in Dunlop himself and has enjoyed success in several countries with his artwork. Although he has travelled the world in search of artistic inspiration, he says that some of the best work he has done is inspired by areas around Kilmarnock.

In fact, one of his most prominent works – currently on exhibition at Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre – is a portrayal of Onthank.

“I see beauty and art in places where others might not see it. We often take Scotland for granted, but we have some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world,” enthuses Eoghann.

Kilmaurs teacher Mary Cotton said: “The children's artwork really improved due to Eoghann’s tutoring. Not only is he talented, but he can see where improvements can be made and suggest helpful tips. I learned more than the children and I’ll try some of his techniques myself. We all thoroughly enjoyed the sessions.

“The children came away feeling very positive and enthusiastic about the experience. I’d be happy for anyone to see our finished artwork. But really the biggest outcome was the enthusiasm for art he built up in the children – and teacher!”

Eoghann said, “The children came up with brilliant ideas. I really wanted them to enjoy the whole creative process – it’s not just about the outcome.”

Cultural co-ordinator Elaine Scott said: “This project helped the young people see how a professional artist works and how an artwork evolves and changes before the finished product is created.”

Kilmaurs children covered a wall in the school with individual small square paintings of local landmarks; Nether Robertland mounted paintings of the local area with an eco theme; Lainshaw created a mural for their outside entrance area and Dunlop produced an internal artwork which joins the new extension to the older school building.

The project was jointly funded by Eden Trust, NADFAS (National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies) and East Ayrshire Council.

For further information, please contact elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk