ADULT ART WOKSHOP
Welcome to the Studio: Meet Laura Hills, Our Art Department Technician!
Behind every vibrant canvas, intricate sculpture, and inspiring gallery display at RMS for Girls, there is a dedicated force keeping the creative gears turning. Today, we are thrilled to spotlight a vital member of our creative community: our Art Technician, Laura Hills!
Whether she’s prepping specialized materials for an upcoming project, assisting students as they experiment with new techniques, or keeping our bustling studios running seamlessly, Laura’s expertise and passion for the arts shine through every day. She plays a crucial role in transforming our art department into a dynamic space where students feel empowered to explore, create, and push their artistic boundaries.
In this post, we sit down with Laura to chat about her background, her favorite creative mediums, and what a typical day in the RMS art studios looks like…
Meet the Instructor
Can you tell us a bit about your background in art and how long you’ve been at the school?
“I have always been passionate about drawing as a child and used to take commissions from school friends, I studied it at school and specialised in pastels for my exams. In my 20’s I worked as a bespoke house sign painting artist in Tring for around 4 years, crafting motifs in clay to be cast in metal which I would paint onto in enamel. I have worked as a school technician for 18 years, curating and assembling 16 exhibitions along with it, also as a community artist in residence in the past, and working with schools on murals and mosaics. In addition to this I have taught adult drawing classes. I have learned the most working here in Art,and Textiles at RMS for 9 years, alongside my fabulous Visual Arts colleagues who have supported all my opportunities in further learning.”
As an art technician, you spend a lot of time behind the scenes. What inspired you to step into the studio spotlight and teach this evening class?
“I love supporting students in their lessons and sharing my knowledge, anyone can think like an artist it just takes practice.”
When you’re not helping out in the Art Department, what kind of art mediums do you love creating yourself?
“I love all mediums which allow you to be expressive, I am a big fan of Impressionism, so I experiment with them all.”
About the New Evening Classes
What can attendees expect from these evening sessisons? What’s the main vibe you’re aiming for?
“My aim is to allow people to embrace the element of curiosity and consistency in painting and drawing.”
A lot of adults worry they ‘aren’t creative enough’ or haven’t picked up a paintbrush since school. What would you say to someone feeling a bit nervous about joining?
“I would say treat it as an investigation to strengthen your foundational skills. There are no mistakes when you are learning.”
What is one skill or technique you are most excited to share with the workshop attendees?
“I have been experimenting with different inks lately and to me they have a wow factor.”
Get to know Laura
What is one art tool or material you simply couldn’t live without in the studio?
“Currently it would be a big thirsty brush, it’s where every painting begins.”
Who or what is your biggest artistic inspiration right now?
“I love nature and I am obsessed with Rebecca Tuckers work at the moment, she paints negative space so beautifully in an interesting and totally original way.”
In three words, how would you describe a perfect evening spent in the art studio?
“Mindful, explorative and dynamic,”
If you are interesting in joining us at the Art Workshop, you can book tickets here!