Brushstrokes of the Artist ™ - Review
By Henry Gaughan
Manager Development and Programs
The Ian Potter Museum of Art
The University of Melbourne
Brushstrokes of the Artist ™ is one of the latest publications in a long tradition of art education material produced for educators. What set the production apart from the rest is that it uses reproductions of original paintings in a most original way and presents methodically, sequences of strategies, questions, vocabulary and activities to assist educators who do not have the necessary background or confidence in the teaching of visual arts.

Brushstrokes is a resource kit which comprises: 4 laminated prints (24 X 32 in. / 600 X 800 mm), 12 laminated prints (20 X 28 in. / 500 X 700 mm), 160 cello-sheened mini prints (5 X 7 in. / 125 X 180 mm) and a full colour Teacher's Resource book (48 pages). The reproductions are of the highest quality and feature extreme close-ups of sections of the painting whereby minute details of the paint surface are thrown into high relief. In effect we are provided with the kind of detail that is not possible during a normal gallery viewing. As one was heard to remark at the launch of the production at the National Gallery of Victoria, these highly textural and gestural images were worth framing, looking as they do like abstract expressionist paintings.

The intention of this production as spelt out in the publicity flier, is to encourage students to learn about artworks by examining them closely and to challenge students to consider the artwork in depth. This aim underpins the resource book, which forms the core of the package. It is clearly set out with primary and secondary questions and activities, practical activities, further investigation and an often-neglected detail, an appropriate vocabulary list. The layout is user friendly and provides the user with a number of options for usage.

The flexibility of the information and the format of the layout make this resource useful for most educators, from the generalist primary school teachers to the art specialist instructor. One can dip into the material and create new activities by building onto the excellent activity suggestions presented. The creative teacher would find numerous cross curriculum possibilities. But equally the novice can follow the program in a more linear manner to achieve solid learning outcomes.

Being aware of a trend in recent times in schools to marginalise art appreciation and practice, this educational package will assist teachers take up the challenge. Drawing up a lesson plan is made relatively simple and the support material simplifies preparation. Prehaps the success of Brushstrokes of the Artist ™; will be the fact that it is geared to assist teachers of primary and secondary students explore art concepts and theory within the confines of the classroom. The intention not being to supplant the primary of viewing original artwork, but to enhance understanding and enjoyment with pre and post visit discussions and activities.

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