To celebrate the new month of Tevet, Kenton Synagogue were delighted to have ShuShu and Avigayil Black lead a Paint Party following the success of the previous one last year.
The couple are outstanding painters in their own right and have undertaken numerous projects as well as several recent projects undertaken together. ShuShu and Avigayil to begin with spoke of the use of water colour paints, and the ability to mix several prime colours together to create another colour and different shades, the varied shapes and weight of brushes to enable control and variety of brush strokes.
Each attendee was provided with an easel and canvass and work then began. Starting with a beaker and pencil to outline the moon, participants then painted this with a white colour and then moved to yellow before painting the sky in blue. The outline shape done in pencil was then not seen.
Following this attention was paid to the middle section of the picture where the horizon had been drawn to make green pastures with a track or path in the centre. Shapes were drawn of trees which were then painted and different colours of leaves were then applied by delicate brush strokes.
The tutors guided members through the various stages making suggestions for developing and mixing colours for a lighter and darker density. The standard of the members’ painting expertise varied, but the point of the evening was to develop one’s skills and have an enjoyable and relaxing time. Some members had clearly done painting as a hobby but others were challenging themselves for the first time.
ShuShu and Avigayil gave personal attention to each of the attendees, giving helpful hints and positive comments. Refreshments were provided to give energy and inspiration! Rebbetzin Black had made a delicious cake for the occasion.
The evening proved to be very therapeutic and so successful that members requested ShuShu and Avigayil’s return.
By Rachelle Goldberg
