Young artists inspired by Van Gogh

A city-wide arts initiative is encouraging young people in Newcastle to get creative ahead of an immersive art exhibition arriving this summer.

Newcastle City Library has been hosting a week-long programme of free arts activities inspired by Vincent Van Gogh in the run-up to Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, which opens at Utilita Arena Newcastle in July.

The campaign has taken place across all 13 libraries in the city, giving children the opportunity to create their own artwork while entering a competition to win tickets to the exhibition.

International artist Alexander Millar visited Newcastle City Library to meet some of the young participants and view their creations.

The Scottish-born artist, who has strong links to the North East, praised the imagination and creativity on display from aspiring young artists taking part in the project.

He said: “I was excited to be part of this fun and educational project encouraging children to immerse themselves in art, and to learn about one of my favourite artists – Vincent Van Gogh. 

“I was invited to come along to inspire the children and perhaps give them some artistic guidance, but to be honest – it’s they who have been giving me tips! 

“They have a very clear and concise idea of how they would like their work to look. 

“It’s very refreshing to see art through the eyes of children and today has been an uplifting experience. 

“I’m very much looking forward to seeing the immersive exhibition when it comes to the city in the summer.”

Sisters Lucy, Sophie and Harriet all took part in the hour-long activity.

Lucy said: “We have been learning about Vincent Van Gogh at school, so it was fun to be part of an arts activity like this. 

“We are actually on the way to the dentist today so this has been a good distraction!”

Sophie added: “It’s been fun to learn this new style of painting. 

“I've also heard about the new exhibition and will definitely be going to see that with my family this summer.”

Harriet added: “Today was really fun. 

“It was also exciting to meet a real life artist. 

“Alexander Millar was really nice and said nice things about our artwork.”

Artwork produced during the sessions will now be showcased on a dedicated gallery wall, with every participant entered into a prize draw for family tickets to the immersive exhibition.

Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience runs at Utilita Arena Newcastle from July 12 to August 9, with tickets available here. 

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