From the Head of Visual Arts
Blue Mountains Grammar School Hosts Its First Artist in Residence
Blue Mountains Grammar School was privileged to host its very first Artist in Residence, welcoming acclaimed Australian artist Rob Shephard to the Senior School for an inspiring week of creativity and artistic exploration.
Throughout his residency, Rob generously shared insights into his unique art practice, offering students a rare glimpse into his creative process and the unconventional materials he employs to bring his ideas to life. His innovative approach, combining traditional techniques with unexpected mediums, encouraged students to think beyond conventional boundaries and engage deeply with their own artistic expression.
Students participated in a series of immersive drawing workshops led by Rob, experimenting with materials such as charcoal, graphite, and pastel. They explored a range of techniques, including quick gestural drawing, erasure methods, and studies in colour contrast, developing both technical skill and creative confidence.
The residency provided an invaluable opportunity for students to learn directly from a practising artist, enriching their understanding of contemporary art-making and sparking renewed enthusiasm for their own visual art studies.
Staff also had the opportunity to participate in a creative workshop with Rob, which sparked inspiration and encouraged them to explore their own artistic expression in new and imaginative ways.
Blue Mountains Grammar School looks forward to continuing this initiative, providing future students with meaningful experiences that connect classroom learning with the vibrant world of professional art practice.
Amal Siorokos
Head of Visual Arts
Quotes from Students
It was super interesting to work with charcoal in a way that was new to me, and I enjoyed the challenge of trying to be more expressive in my artmaking. It was great to use simple objects like desks to play with light and shadows! - Zara
The art workshop last week was a great experience. The artist who came in was a really nice guy and a very complete artist who was able to pass his knowledge on to us. He helped us understand how to capture different shapes and how to utilise light as a tool in our art practices. It was a very enjoyable and helpful experience. - Otto
Year 11 Visual Arts Students
Staff Workshop
Artworks by Rob Shephard
