When does a squiggly line cease to become a squiggly line and become abstract art?

According to a new arts group in St George’s in doesn’t really matter.

Paul Doughty and other local artists will discuss abstract art at a workshop being held this Saturday in St George’s. The workshop is being organised by a new initiative called The Arts Project.

“For many people, understanding abstract art and addressing the question ‘what is abstract art’ is a reoccurring question: a question that gets in the way of us appreciating the art itself,” said Arts Project organiser Emma Ingham. “The magic happens when we let go of this need to know.”

The Arts Project aims to build a cultural exchange between Bermuda and other countries through the visual and creative arts for the benefit of the town of St George’s.

The abstract art workshop is one of their first events. Activities in the abstract art workshop will include a lecture by Mr Doughty on the power of abstract art.

Mr Doughty is well known locally for his abstract and has taught classes in the past on topics such as abstract drawing.

After his talk, there will be a walk around St George’s in search of abstract inspiration.

“You will learn how you can use the many and varied subjects of the town’s architecture, floral works, boats and nautical icons as sources of inspiration,” said Ms Ingham. “These can all be used as the basis for your abstract works. You will go beyond your typical creative ‘box’ and express these subjects freely and uniquely in your abstract works.”

The workshop is open to artists of all skill levels, but space is limited. Participants are urged to bring water based paints, drawing tools, paper and canvas.

The workshop will begin at 10.30am in St Peter’s Church Hall at the bottom of the church’s steps. A trek around St George’s will follow. The event ends at 4pm.

The fee for the workshop is $95 and includes lunch with refreshments.

For more information about this workshops and others to come, see www.facebook.com/ArtProjectStGeorgeBermuda or call 331-1946.