Last weekend I had the absolute pleasure of running a workshop in the Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Inspired by the exhibition of Quentin Blake’s illustrations, I organised it on behalf of the SCBWI*. We had such a good laugh, sharing the results of writing exercises and quick-draw illustrations.
To be honest, that was my third time at the exhibition. I loved delving in deeper to study ‘Angelica Sprocket’s Pockets’ and the joy that is ‘Mr Magnolia’.
The exercises were chosen with care. There were writing and illustrating exercises and time to collaborate to create a story from the starter ‘All was well until …’ The fact that everyone felt able to share their work showed me what a fabulous group of creatives I was part of and I really would like to thank everyone that came along for their enthusiasm and willingness to take part in every activity.
I took my time finding resources, such as the bag my Mum had sewn, to fill with items for a writing exercise. I borrowed my daughter’s toy mouse with it’s hidden pocket, my daughter drew a puddle for me to use and I collected pine cones from the garden making me feel I was bringing a whole world to the workshop.
So much time can be spent writing alone, so to share the company of other like minded writers was indeed an inspiration. We all agreed how wonderful it is that many events are now online and accessible. The buzz of meeting up in person can’t be denied though.
This week the Wayword Festival is being run by Aberdeen University so I have a few events booked to enjoy – online and in person!
I am reading: Haarville by Justin Davies and The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell
Podcasts: Frank Skinner’s Poetry Podcast – My Last Duchess
Learn Italian – Joy of Languages (always learning, that’s me!)
Quentin Blake Illustration Exhibitions
*SCBWI Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
Switch the Kettle on, Love 
Such a talented lady!! What an amazing thing to do, and so glad your Mum was there in spirit. x.
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Thank you so much, Jackie – right back at you about the talent though! Yes, I loved having the bag Mum made with me. xx
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A Quentin Blake exhibition! How much fun that would be!! You continue to be an inspiring and creative reader and writer and it was lovely to read your email today. Thanks – Annie
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Oh, thank you so much Annie. I really appreciate you reading my blog and making such kind comments! Hope you are keeping well? xx
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I’m finally almost back to normal after 20+ days with Covid that started at the end of a trip to Quebec. My main recovery goal has been not to spread this to G, K and U and so far they’ve stayed well. Hope you, Kevin and your girls are all well. Please give your dad my best wishes next time you see him. His new home and the staff seem pretty wonderful! What an excellent family decision!
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Hi, I’m so sorry to hear you had covid. Hope you are feeling better with no lasting symptoms?
That’s so kind of you, about Dad, I’ll pass on your best wishes. xx
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