Many major international art galleries around the world are banning public sketching inside their walls. There’s too much traffic jamming corridors and high traffic brings insurance issues.
The quieter Art Gallery of St. Albert is going in reverse. It starts its debut Sketching Saturdays series on Saturday, April 26. The public is invited to drop in and draw artworks on display including Edith Chu’s main gallery exhibition, Sweet and Sour Memories. Artists are also invited to explore the gallery’s first floor array of paintings, sculptures and original crafts.
“It’s designed as a fun day for like-minded people who like to sketch and connect with people. Drawing is often solitary, and this can help fill a void if people are lonely,” said gallery programming manager Shannon Vance.
Sketching in art galleries and fine art museums is a time-honoured tradition that dates back centuries. Encouraged by most instructors, sketching inspires creativity, sharpens dexterity and alters the way artists see the world.
The Art Gallery of St. Albert will provide various art supplies as incentive to experiment. However, if individuals prefer, they are welcome to bring their own sketchbooks and materials.
“If there is interest, we’d like to do this once a month,” Vance said.
Sketching Saturdays runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Refreshments will be served throughout the day. For additional information, call the main desk at 780-460-4310.
