Arts on Site: Watercolour technique with Rod Gardner

Art and history collide in our next railway-inspired Arts on Site workshop.

Join us for a captivating journey through Tasmanian railway history, as we explore the Transforming the Island: Railways in Tasmania exhibition at QVMAG Inveresk.

In this hands-on Arts on Site workshop, led by Launceston artist Rod Gardner, you'll dive into the exhibition, drawing inspiration from its rich historical content.

Starting with sketching techniques, you'll learn how to capture the essence of your subject. As the session progresses, you'll be guided through the basics of monochromatic watercolour, focusing on light, shadow, and colour reproduction.

Whether you’re new to watercolour or looking to refine your skills, this workshop offers techniques to elevate your art. Don't miss this unique opportunity to celebrate Tasmanian railway heritage while discovering the beauty of watercolour painting.

About the workshop

• This workshop is suitable for adults of all experience levels [ages 18+] who are curious about the intersection of art and history.
• The registration fee includes all materials.
• The workshop's location is the Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk, 2 Invermay Road, Invermay, Launceston.

About the artist

Rod Trip Gardner, an emerging Aboriginal artist, finds inspiration in various aspects of painting. His primary subjects include members of the Aboriginal community and the picturesque river and streetscapes of Launceston. Rod currently works with watercolors and charcoal, favouring the plein air style—painting outdoors.

Rod is self-taught, learning through online resources and practical experience. Additionally, he was fortunate to receive a grant from Arts Tasmania, which allowed him to be mentored by the renowned Tasmanian artist, Jonathan Bowden.

Recently, Rod has become part of the teaching staff at Brisbane Street Art School, where he provides professional art instruction to fellow Tasmanians.

@rodtripgardner

About the exhibition

The first railway line in Tasmania was begun in 1868, between Launceston and Deloraine. This was the beginning of Tasmania's railway story, one which would transform the island, ushering in huge economic changes and allowing easier access to new parts of the state.

Located on the site of the heart of Tasmania's railway infrastructure, this exhibition invites you to explore the impact of railways on Tasmania from 1857 to the 1990s. Featuring iconic locomotives such as Y3, and artefacts related to the workshops and Tasmania's rail network, Transforming the Island takes you on a rail journey like no other.

Transforming the Island: Railways in Tasmania
Museum at Inveresk, 2 Invermay Road, Launceston
Free entry | Open daily | 10am to 4pm

About QVMAG's Arts on Site program

Our ongoing series will immerse you in a vibrant blend of art techniques, taking inspiration from our current exhibitions and with expert guidance from our passionate facilitators.

With monthly workshops held across our two sites at the Queen Victoria Art Gallery at Royal Park and the Museum at Inveresk, participants can explore photography, sketching, drawing, watercolour painting, oil painting, textile design, and interior design.

Arts on Site provides the perfect opportunity for seasoned artists and curious beginners alike to elevate your artistic skills and connect with a community of creators.

Find out more about this exciting series at www.qvmag.tas.gov.au/Arts-on-Site