Children Enjoy Free Art Workshops at Blaenau Gwent Libraries

Last week saw children and parents alike letting their creativity fly with two free Alice in Wonderland themed art workshops at our Libraries in Abertillery and Tredegar.

Over 35 children of all ages and their parents attended the free workshops organised by Blaenau Gwent Libraries, which featured the creative talents of Newport based freelance artist, Andy O’Rourke.

The sessions focussed on the famous Lewis Carroll story, Alice in Wonderland, with Andy O’Rourke teaching the children how to draw a variety of the characters, while Donna Hardman, our Libraries Development Officer read stories to the budding artists.

The sessions proved to be hugely popular with all the participants, generating lots of positive feedback, including:

“I had a fantastic time, I'm really proud of my drawings!” - Abbie, aged 8

“It's great to have a free event, which encourages reading too!” - Parent

Andy O’Rourke said of the workshops; "We had two great sessions. In the morning 23 children produced beautiful dynamic illustrations full of colour and life. In the afternoon it seemed like it was mainly the adults who wanted to play and leaped at the chance to reawaken their artistic talents. They produced some beautiful and unique illustrations brimming with character."

Tracy Jones, Library Services Manager added: “During the summer holidays all our libraries have held a range of workshops and events promoting our new 'Adventures in Wonderland' reading scheme. The project has enabled the service to engage with families in new, innovative ways using Alice in Wonderland themed events.  It is proving to be a great way to encourage children to use libraries, with sessions being exciting, fun and fostering creativity!  Families have really appreciated having free events in their local libraries, which also help to keep children reading throughout the summer.”

For more information on our six libraries located across Blaenau Gwent and the varied services they offer please visit http://aneurinleisure.org.uk/heritage/libraries