Time for budding artists to confront their fears

A new class starting at Manukau City Council's Otara Music Arts Centre (OMAC) may be just what budding artists need to unleash their artistic talents.

The new ‘Fear of Art’ class on a Monday night has been developed for people who have always wanted to have a go at art, but haven’t had the courage to pick up a paintbrush and see what they can do.

“This class isn’t about how good you are at painting or drawing, it’s simply about getting into it and having a go. Students will be let loose with all sorts of art media to explore the world of art. Two courses will be held next term, and will run for five weeks each – a good length of time to have some fun and find out what you enjoy doing,” says programme co-ordinator Ruth Thompson.

Ruth hopes that after conquering any fear of getting artistic, students will go on to discover some of the many other opportunities to develop and showcase their skills by participating in other OMAC courses.

OMAC has added several new classes for children, youth and adults to its programme for next term. One new class that is expected to be popular is a storyboard and cartoon class. Talented artist and actor Nooroa Te Hira, who has acted on, as well as provided storyboards for several New Zealand television programs, will lead the course. Nooroa has been involved in visual arts his life, and says he has found that if children are given the opportunity to draw, they will. His course not only teaches children how to draw, but also how to tell stories at the same time.

Also new in the visual arts category is photography for beginners. If you have a camera and want to learn how to take great photos, this four-week course will give you some great basic skills that will help you take memorable pictures.

For a full programme of courses available at Otara Music Arts Centre, pick up the latest ‘Arts in the City’ catalogue at your local arts centre, library or ward centre, or call OMAC on 274-6400.

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