At this time of year we focus on the educational aspects of what we do at Four Square Fine Arts. We are currently developing a new sister website which focuses on arts education drawing on initiatives we have incorporated into our programme over the past 3 years which will be ready in August.
Each year, my husband Marco and myself have two Art GCSE students from local schools working with us in June and July. It is clearly not possible for a 15 year-old to sell to clients, plan shows, do accounts, negotiate with suppliers etc. We therefore tailor the work experience around their specific interest in the art world. For my part, asking for their input on creative ideas regarding forthcoming shows; meeting artists in their studios and going to different gallery exhibitions; discussing art with regards to what they respond to visually either through techniques and processes and/or the imagery and talking through what running a gallery involves it gives them real insight into real life. With Marco they get the chance to work alongside a professional artist in his studio working with different mediums, developing ideas for their own work in a practical and non-pressurised way outside the classroom.
Many people I meet commiserate and say “Poor You!” when we mention having the students. Although it would be difficult to work with more than 2 people a year in this focused way Marco and myself get an enormous amount from working with these young adults. Their comments are often really insightful, they can bring new energy to a dilemma and their interest and engagement is a rich and rewarding working experience.
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