article: "cromwell artist heads online to teach her passion" by KIM Bowden (Central APP) originally published, 13/7/2018

Creating art is good for the soul but too many people miss out because they think they aren't talented enough.

That’s the view of Cromwell artist Joanne Deaker, who’s on a mission to help others rediscover the joy of art. 

People give up on art as they grow older because they are sold the myth of it being a talent, and that’s sad, she said.

“I believe anyone can draw and paint, it’s just a matter of learning how too.”

A professional artist for nearly 20 years who has also been teaching for the last 7, Joanne’s set to teach her first online course shortly.

It'll allow participants to learn at their own pace, from the comfort of their own place, she said. 

“Particularly in Central Otago in winter, that’s an advantage.”

The nine-week introductory drawing course, which will run for the duration of term three, will consist of classes with demonstration videos and comprehensive written instructions with pictures.

Participants will be guided through a series of drawing projects that will teach “all the basics” of drawing.

The course will cater for adults as well as older children, and there’s the option to be either an active or passive participant.

Active participants can join a private Facebook group to connect with others on the course, share tips, and access livestream project reviews, she said. They'll also submit their projects to Joanne via email and receive direct feedback from her and they'll take part in an online exhibition at the end of the course.

“This is the first time I’ve ever done anything like this. It's a labour of love with the aim of being able to help a wider audience learn a skill they missed out on”

For Joanne, when it comes to art, both the finished product as well as the process of creating it are a source of pleasure. And she's excited to share that with others, she said.

“When people learn to draw they tend to see the world differently. They look at the world with fresh eyes, and become more aware of the beauty surrounding them.”

Reproduced with permission from the Central App.

At 2/9/2019: This course is NOW available but the options are a little different from above - please see "Drawing for Everyone Online Foundation Course" for up to date information.