Twenty-seven (27) art teachers from public and private schools across the island are currently pursuing a 3-month certification course sponsored by the Halo Foundation and the Jumby Bay Fund, in conjunction with the Royal Drawing School (United Kingdom), the Ministry of Education and The G (art gallery in Piccadilly).
Tutors from the Royal Drawing School, Cherry Pickles and Oliver MacDonald Oulds, have expressed satisfaction with the progress to date. “The tasks we have set so far have been very well executed by the students. Cherry and I have been excited by the results that we are already seeing”, said Mr. MacDonald Oulds. “We are really enjoying the process, and extremely pleased with the outcome. The openness of the teachers (our students) is refreshing, and the enthusiasm is infectious in each class”.
Local artist counterpart, Anson Henry, is also working along with the Royal Drawing School — sharing useful tips and information with the teachers. Mr. Henry is famous for his meticulous and hyper realistic drawings, and is one of Antigua and Barbuda’s leading pencil artists.
Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams recently paid a visit to observe one of the classes, and took the opportunity to address the students. Lady Williams explained, “We were forced to minimize the numbers in each group, given the current health protocols. The G is a large and airy studio with spectacular surrounding views, so this lends itself well to the purpose of this exercise.” She added, “Ultimately, we expect that any skills honed will be transferred to the pupils in classrooms across Antigua and Barbuda.”
Governor General, H.E. Sir Rodney Williams said: “We are very much aware of the value of culture and the arts in defining and maintaining the creative integrity of a nation, and the Halo Foundation therefore seeks to be as supportive as possible in this area.”
For further information, contact The Halo Foundation (562-9153), or email contact@foundationhalo.org.
