David Farrer and Cordelia John
We like to tailor our teaching style to the individuals requirements, so a seasoned practitioner who wants less hands-on can have just that while a more nervous first-timer can be helped on a pratical as well as theoretical level.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?A thorough grounding on the techniques required to make a wire &papiermache object (with tips for future reference)
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?We use lots of different techniques & try to tailor them to an individuals needs. All pieces include a student-made wire armature & usually finised with a 3d collage of text and or images.
What inspires your own work?We are inspired by recycling, nature & the expression ‘necessity is the mother of invention’. The excitement of appropriation, using that which is considered ‘waste’; creating an ethereal sense of the present on that which refers with nostalgia to another age.
Where can students see examples of your work?On our webites.
Where did you gain your training?David studied at Sunderland Polytechnic & the Royal Academy in The Hague. Cordelia studied at Christies & graduated with a post-graduate diploma distinction in Modern & Contemporary Art.
Teaching experience:Cordelia taught in & ran a Nursery school for 10 years. David has taught art workshops & residencies for 10 years. We have worked together for seven years on the latter.
Is your work in any public or private collections?Our work is in the Public Records office, Kew. Several Hotels such as the Knightsbridge Hotel, Charlotte Street Hotel, Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Hotel du Vin, Henley-on Thames. It is also found in numerous private collections
Professional groups and societies:David failed his audition for the scouts in 1981 & Cordelia is serving out her 30 year ban from the Girl Guide movement for violent conduct!