Culture Perth and  Kinross caught up with Perth-based Artist, Bruce Shaw ahead of his special two-day workshop. The class concentrates on sketching, drawing and using creative colour in the study of Marine Fossils, as part of our Dinosaurs themed programme for this Spring/Summer.

What’s so interesting about drawing marine fossils?

My interest in geology rocks and the fossils that can be found there goes back many years to when I was a young boy. I still have two or three specimens in hand that I got when at that age and find them still as fascinating today as the day I came across them.

The wonderful thing about drawing fossils is the fact that you are drawing ‘Deep Time’. A living creature that has made a mark in geological history that is still visible today and will continue to be in the rock as long as it exists. That’s quite a thought when attempting to create a response in your drawing.

How can drawing marine fossils help me develop my drawing skills?

Drawing marine fossils is an excellent discipline for improving your drawing skills from an objective point of view. Close observation will reveal that many of these creatures by their nature possess wonderful fractal design in there make up, that allows for further creative expansion of thought and image when engaging with them (objective to semi-abstract).

What kind of teacher are you?

I like to create an environment for the students that is relaxing and stress free as possible and teach in a way that is both educational and enjoyable. Often the subject matter can be quite hard and seem quite daunting for the students, so we have to think of ways round this and how to help those who might struggle. ‘Don’t worry about it, come along and enjoy the experience’.

It is very rewarding when the student with a little tuition and help sees what they can do and begins to both enjoy and embrace the time.

Adult Art Weekend: Sea Fossils is available to book now.