2017 School Magazine

ART WALKS

CALLIGRAPHY

Calligraphy ( しょどう ( shodõ )), to put it simply, is a fusion of traditional Japanese art, literature and poetry. It is widely practised in Japan and China using rice paper and brushes, as well as being practised in myriad other forms around the world. It is also considered to be the noblest form of art in many Asian cultures. The Brisbane Girls Grammar School Calligraphy Club was founded in April 2000 and aspiring calligraphers from all Year levels paint a variety of thought-provoking phrases or proverbs. Calligraphy Club is held for one hour after school on five Thursdays per term with professional calligraphers, Kojima-Sensei and Fumiko-Sensei, both ranked ninth-dan (the highest ranking). They share their wisdom and expertise in order for students to produce their finest calligraphy masterpieces. Sumi-e, the art of brush painting on rice paper, is a very unique experience in which one can easily be immersed. Along with Eesha Bajra (12R), we were delighted to have had our Sumi-e artworks exhibited in the National Art Centre Tokyo this year when we entered the International Sumi-e Association brush painting competition. Hillary and Eesha were finalists, while Ellen placed first overall in the Under 23 division of this International Sumi-e Competition. Come and try this favourite and relaxing pastime — new students are always welcome! HILLARY BUI (12E) AND ELLEN GARDNER (12E) CALLIGRAPHY CLUB LEADERS

The Visual Art Department continues to host Art Walks once a term on a Saturday morning. Upcoming walks are advertised in the School’s weekly e-newsletter, BGGS News , and students, parents, staff and friends of the Girls Grammar Community are welcome to attend. Art walks are usually held at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) or Queensland Art Gallery (QAG). An art specialist provides a commentary to a particular exhibition exploring artists’ intentions, historical context of works, and aspects of making. With lively discussion between works and a storytelling atmosphere, it is a lovely way to start the weekend for those with an interest in Art. In 2017, the Term I art walk was held on Saturday 11 March at GOMA with a guided tour through the Sugar Spin exhibition. Sugar Spin at GOMA featured an assortment of vibrant contemporary works. A highlight of the show was Heard by American sculptor and performance artist Nick Cave featuring vibrant sculptural horses brought to life by dancers. Term II art walk was held on Saturday 3 June at QAG with a tour of Making Modernism, showcasing the iconic art of Georgia O’Keeffe, one of the most significant American painters of the twentieth century, alongside modernist masterpieces by Margaret Preston and Grace Cossington-Smith. MS BRONWYN McKEAN

BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2017 | CO-CURRICULUM | 099