Today was the last children’s workshop at the National Gallery, and it rushed by so quickly. I still have the adult workshop tomorrow, but I’m going to be sad when this week is over. I’ve met some wonderful people, revived old friendships, and seen the glow of inspiration in the happy faces of, literally, hundreds of children.
Alongside my events, the gallery have hosted workshops by an organisation called Artburst, who mix up art, stories and drama, to create wonderful workshops for children. To tie in with the week, they have used Katie’s Picture Show, in particular the Rousseau painting “A Tropical Storm with a Tiger” (or, “Surprised!”).
The children created scenery and acted out a mini version of the book. It was rather stange and wonderful – and, appropriately, surprising – to be able see the performances, and indeed to eavesdrop on the reading of my book in the gallery. It feels like all this is happening to someone else, not me. I am very grateful to everyone who has worked with and around me, preparing the week and supporting Katie. It’s been an unforgettable experience…
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