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Serendipity Patchwork & Quilting: Brenda Gael Smith

Serendipity Patchwork & Quilting: Brenda Gael Smith

Creating at Copacabana

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Abstraction in Action

Abstraction from Reality: Copa Abstractions: Weekly Art Project: Brenda Gael Smith

Learn how to create an abstract composition drawn from reality using YOUR preferred medium and techniques*. Working from a personal source of inspiration found in nature or place, students will learn the basics of abstraction through observation, reflection and repetition.

Brenda developed this workshop especially for committed students looking to stretch their creative muscles and to explore abstraction both in concept and practice. The multi-segment program includes:

  • Module 1 (3 hours): an overview of the history of abstraction in the visual arts including both non-objective abstraction and abstraction from reality; an introduction to the elements of design and developing your art vocabulary; warm-up composition exercises;
  • Module 2 (3 hours): inspiration gathering, setting parameters, compositional options and the principles of design; converting ideas into compositions;
  • Module 3 (optional): informal open studio session where Brenda is available to help troubleshoot abstraction issues;
  • Module 4: group presentations and feedback. The language of critique. All students are expected to participate in this module and contribute to a supportive environment.

*The Zoom version of this class does NOT include technique instruction. Students are expected to have the skills necessary to undertake the assignments in their preferred medium and techniques.

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Contact

Brenda Gael Smith
brenda@serendipitypatchwork.com.au

PO Box 131, Avoca Beach
NSW 2251 Australia

Serendipity Studio News

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Hello 60! Swimming at the ocean pool is a fantasti Hello 60! Swimming at the ocean pool is a fantastic way to start the day.

#copacabanansw #macmastersbeachnsw #saltwaterhealing
This year (2026) marks the 20th anniversary of the This year (2026) marks the 20th anniversary of the Australasian Quilt Convention. The entrance features a display of the brochure covers over the years and it was fun to identify 3 covers that include snippets of exhibits that I was involved with.

⭐️ 2009 was my first AQC. I was a tutor and my contribution to the “teach me” exhibit was “Grass” that you can see in the lower right corner.

⭐️ in 2013, the Twelve by Twelve International Art Quilt Project shared the Colourplay series which included a piece by @studioconway highlighting the plight of refugees in drought (see centre left)

⭐️ in 2020 the chronology was disrupted by the Covid pandemic but not before the brochure was published with “The Fuchsia’s Looking Bright m” by @darlingdi from @vision2020textiles who poseda poignant question: Will my optimistic dream of a brighter future turn out to be 2020 vision, or just a fun and fabulous fabric fusion of my favourite colours?

Congratulations to @craft.events_  on the 20th Anniversary 🤩

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