Sound Circle Facilitator Training report December 2007.
When: Saturday November 24 and Sunday November 25, 2007.
Where: The Metropolitan Senior Citizens Centre, Fortitude Valley and Access Arts office 119 Lamington Street New Farm.
What is Sound Circles?
Sound Circles is an art form where people come together to create and share their own ideas with others through sound and movement. The aim is to develop skills in self expression and to allow freedom for people to express themselves in ways they feel most comfortable. Sound Circles also encourages self confidence and allows people to explore talents they otherwise thought they didn't have.
There are a number of different strategies used to deliver Sound Circles. A standard Sound Circles might consist of a warm-up, getting to know you exercise, a couple of activities, a Sound Bath and a Whoosh. Although facilitators are encouraged to plan their sessions they are also encouraged to be flexible and open to change in response to group dynamics and individual needs.
On Saturday November 24 and Sunday November 25, twelve trainees spent two full days working alongside three experienced facilitators in developing facilitation skills for a highly expressive art form. During the weekend trainees had the opportunity to experience Sound Circles first hand by joining the Brisbane group in their weekly workshop. After this experience, trainees learnt how to plan a Sound Circle and were given the opportunity to lead various components of a workshop with the help of experienced facilitators. Trainees were then challenged to create their own Sound Circles without the help of experienced facilitators and to work together to devise a short plan. Trainees were encouraged to be aware of challenging behaviours and to think about how they might overcome them. They also enjoyed exploring various different song writing techniques which resulted in four very different compositions!
Apart from some minor hiccups on the first day, the outcome of the weekend was highly successful with all trainees participating and giving 110 percent. I look forward to facilitating, as well as participating in, Sound Circles in the future!
- Hayley Kitchener (Sound Circles trainee facilitator)
Sound Circles in Tokyo City
It's been almost 8 months since I moved to Tokyo now. I've done lots of fun things during my time here, going to lots of art galleries, festivals, some great parks, and I have to admit I really love going to the fancy department stores and getting the free food samples! (Of course it goes without saying that I have every intention of buying something'sometime'!)
But even more enjoyable than all the exotic freebie taste tests in the department stores, was the Sound Circle at West Tokyo Actors' School (WAS) on the 3rd of November. WAS is a community performing arts group in Hachioji that welcomes everyone and anyone who strongly desires to express themselves on stage, to become a member. It began in 2003, and there are now around 70 people involved. Every year the group spends 3 months doing special workshops to broaden their experience and learn new skills, 4 or 5 months developing their core skills and creating a stage production, then rehearsing for the public performance which usually takes place in April. Yumiko from Access Arts' Japanese partner organisation Tanpopo no ye introduced me to the group in December last year, and since then I've been along quite a few times and had great fun!
The theme for the Sound Circle on the day was Sound Travel. For the first half, after doing warm-ups and introductions, we travelled through time, sounding out everyone's day, and even travelling to the future seeing what the next day will hold! Crows cawed, keys rattled to open doors, trains went on their way and lots of delicious food was munched, crunched and scrunched! For the second half we did a sound tour of Create Hall where the Actor's School do their workshops, guided by members of 5 groups who each specialised in an area. The locker room/umbrella rack area and the stairs area were particular highlights of the tour for me. We ended with the Sound Bath, where at least one person fell asleep (!), and of course, a Whoosh! Our youngest Sound Traveller was 0 years old, the oldest about 65, and everyone in between. The feedback was all very positive, and we're hoping to have another opportunity to do it all again sometime! For more information on West Tokyo Actors' School, go to the English section at fantasycap.org/aboutwasa.html.
- Amelia Dowe (Sound Circles facilitator in Japan)
BOA REPORT
The past month has been a very busy and exciting one for BOA. The Open Day Visual Arts Exhibition was a success, showcasing the fantastic work of all current BOA members. I would like to extend a big thank you to all members for contributing to BOA this year by sharing your ideas and enthusiasm. The level of commitment is reflected in the quality of the work that has been created.
AART. BOXX EXHIBITION
Peter Hughes and Alex Crombie Van-Ewyk's work was featured in the AArt.Boxx exhibition at the Sydney Opera House. Both Peter and Alex attended the AArt.Boxx exhibition opening on the 20th November. This annual exhibition showcased the creative talents of young Australian artists (under 25) who have a disability. The exhibition was initiated by Accessible Arts and featured works by emerging artists selected from a national call-out for artists.
LISA BLAKE and BECKY DOWN'S EXHIBITION
RAW SPACE GALLERIES, SOUTH BANK
Lisa Blake and Becky Down's work will feature in the first exhibition at Raw Space Galleries, South Bank, for 2008. The exhibition features current work by both artists and opens on Friday 11th of January at 6pm and continues until Wednesday 29th January. So please join us for the opening of this exhibition.
Raw Space Galleries
99 Melbourne St South Brisbane
Ph: 3844 8852
Opening hours: 7am - 4pm
AUSTISM QLD EXHIBITION
On the 3rd December works by Michael Mulvey, Peter Hughes, Alex Crombie Van-Ewyk from the Brisbane Outsider Artists Studio were featured in Autism Queensland's Creative Futures Gala Art Show at the Brisbane City Hall. The event was in celebration of Autism Qld's 40th birthday.
TERM 4 COMMUNITY VISUAL ARTS WORKSHOPS
The term 4 Community Visual Arts workshops went well with many participants eager to continue workshops next year. The workshop was facilitated by a local Indigenous artist Paul Bong and co-facilitated by BOA Studio Assistant Renae Burton. Painting and print making were the main areas covered in this workshop. Thanks to all those who participated.
- Lyndall White Community Visual Arts Workshop ' Term 4, BOA Studio, Access Arts
Individual Professional Development Profile: Jamie McCaffrey-Creed
For the past few months, Access Arts member Jamie McCaffrey-Creed has been participating in weekly art sessions with the support of experienced artist and family friend Fiona Stirling and Access Arts. When asked why she enjoys the art sessions so much Jamie replied 'because Fiona is a great teacher!'
Matthew Lys: Unmasked- Exhibition Report
Access Arts member Matthew Lys' solo photographic exhibition took place at the Brisbane Square Library and was officially launched on October 12 2007. The month long exhibition featured 30 of Matthew's photographs, selected to showcase his diverse, skilful and often humorous photographic style.
I have been working with Matthew for the last year to further develop his photographic and business skills as part of Access Arts' Creative Respite Options program. This program focuses on the creative and leisure needs of older parent carers and the person they are caring for. For the last few months, my work with Matthew has involved assisting him to plan and organise for his exhibition.
The process leading up to the exhibition involved choosing the venue and meeting and negotiating with the particular event coordinators at Brisbane City Library about space, time and catering; taking part in the choosing of the photos to be used in the exhibition and arranging for their printing and mounting; developing an invitation list and sending out the general invitations; writing letters of invitation to special and official guests; arranging for some entertainment to be provided on the night; arranging and creating more masks to be included in the display and; a variety of other small tasks as required.
Overall, the exhibition was very successful with great attendance on the launch night and throughout the following two weeks. The comments made by audiences during this time were very positive and the presentation of a special recognition award to Matthew from Brisbane's Lord Mayor, Campbell Newman was a highlight. The sale of many photos on the launch night and throughout the exhibition indicated how much of a success the exhibition truly was. This success can be summed up through the comments of the security guard at the library; 'I am really sad to see this exhibition go. There hasn't been a day go by since they went up that I haven't purposely come in to see them. It has been the best exhibition here since they opened the place and I sure hope Matthew's work comes back again soon.'
As for Matthew's future plans with Creative Respite Options, he hopes to further develop his computer skills to enhance his photography and submit more of his photos to publications, exhibitions, photo stockists and competitions.
- Richard McLaren (Creative Respite Options Artsworker)
Actors Anonymous Update
Actors Anonymous is reaching its final session for 2007 on Friday 7th December. Semester 2 saw the group create and develop an original work which was performed on two occasions, a benefit evening celebrating Shakespeare, which was designed as a fundraiser/networking event, and Access Arts' Open Day. The performance at the Open Day was received well by both audience and performers, and all are looking forward to another exciting year in 2008! We would love to thank our participants, staff and those who have supported us for enabling us to have the successful year which we have had.
Actors Anonymous welcome new members at any time throughout the year. For further information about the group, please call Alyssa on 0400 703 159 or E-mail: alyssa@accessarts.org.au.
We hope to recommence with more dramatic fun in early February. Be sure to keep reading the newsletter for further info about start time, venue, etc.
- Alyssa Maughan (Actors Anonymous Facilitator)
Community Choir Wrap-up
Access Arts Community choir is wrapping up for 2007. We've had an extremely successful year, reaching new heights constantly. There has been a notable improvement in the participants' vocal ability and everybody has had fun. We are very fortunate to have had the opportunity to perform on 3 occasions, and have been well-received.
We hope to recommence in early February next year. If you would like further information about our community choir, please call Alyssa on 0400 703 159 or E-mail: alyssa@accessarts.org.au. Anybody is welcome to join, no audition necessary, no experience required! Workshops come at a cost of $10.00 per week. Rehearsals this year took place at the Metropolitan Senior Citizens Centre, 9 Church Street, Fortitude Valley. Next year's venue is to be advised. Please keep reading Access Arts News for further info.
While we have had much success, we are sorry to inform you that Hayley Kitchener, one of our facilitators, has had to withdraw due to increasing commitments. We are looking for someone with extensive experience in choral singing and in group facilitation to take her place. We are also in need of volunteers to assist with admin, tea/coffee making and supporting participants in order for them to get the most out of their experience with us. (Please refer to the facilitator notice in the 'What's On' for contact details and more info).
Finally, Hayley and I would like to thank many people, including Access Arts Inc, our participants, volunteers and those from Brisbane auditions and Quest Community Newspapers for assisting us in the establishment of the group, as well as helping to ensure that the choir continues to run smoothly. We look forward to another year of colourful choral music in 2008.
- Alyssa Maughan (Community Choir Facilitator)
Staff Profile: Jessica Townsend is our latest addition to the Access Arts staff team. Jessica will be beginning her Project Officer position in January 2008.
1. Q: When did you come to AAI?
I first came to AAI through Sound Circles just a couple of weeks ago.
2. Q: What made you decide to work for AAI?
I have always wanted to work for AAI. The beautiful people I've met there and others that know AAI have given me a good indication of the great work they do for the community.
3. Q: What did you do before coming to AAI?
Directing children and adults in theatre, teaching speech and drama, working in child care, facilitating art workshops and studying at QUT.
4. Q: What is your favourite food?
I'm dieting at present so I'm staying away from bad foods, but my favourite is sweet potato in any form.
5. Q: What is your favourite movie?
The Goonies
6. Q: What is your favourite song?
Anything Jazz on the old 78 records that I can play on my Gramophone.
7. Q: What is your star sign?
Scorpio and yes I'm a true Scorpio!
8. Q: If you were sent to a desert island, what would you take with you?
I'd take hubby, my cat, a big hat, a hammock, a cocktail and of course my gramophone.
9. Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years time?
In the middle of the bush with 4 kids, a big veggie garden and 1 goat. Surrounded by lots of friends and looking back at what I have done in the past.
10. Q: What is your philosophy in life?
Love.
Member's Corner:
Member Profile: Flowentha Wit
1. Q: When did you become a member of AAI?
I have only joined AAI in the last couple of weeks. My brother David Roosje and family are members and a friend of mine suggested it to me.
2. Q: What made you decide to become a member of AAI?
I was watching my brother David in Actors Anonymous, so I thought I'd give it a go.
3. Q: What area(s) of the arts are you interested in?
My family and friends told me about the acting workshop so went along. I'm more into singing than acting so if I have the time next year will try the Choir workshop.
4. Q: What is your favourite food?
Chocolate in sweets or desserts and Lasagne or a Roast for other meals.
5. Q: What is your favourite movie?
I love anything with Doris Day in. I also like fantasy like Nemo and any of the old time movies (black & white)
6. Q: What is your favourite song?
I like country music and a mix of other styles but just now can't think of any names in particular.
7. Q: If you were sent to a desert island, what would you take with you?
Food and clothes.
8. Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years time?
Hopefully in my own place with a small dog. I am staying with my family at the moment.
9. Q: What is your philosophy in life?
Try to be kind to each other and overlook others' faults.
Home and Away
by William (Bill) Thomas
There's a delightful, brilliant well acted, very long running Australian Series called Home and Away.
Which is set in the beautiful, scenic, fictitious, oceanfront township named Summer Bay.
There's so much variety of different people and places,
Where the talented, versatile actors play the characters of many faces.
The above poem was written by William (Bill) Thomas at New Farm, Brisbane on Thursday 22nd November 2007.
We Sing a Song
We're the happy peoples
And we just like to sing
We don't care if we're Disables
We sing joy to bring
We sing songs for happiness
We sing songs for joy
We sing songs because we're happy
We sing songs for love
We love to hear the music in our ear
When we sing we don't want to stop
We love to sing
Sad or happy and love songs
Singing a song makes us happy
By Lyn Flanagan
What's On
Are you an experienced choral conductor with a burning desire to conduct a new and dynamic community choir?
Do you want to gain more experience working with a positive and willing group of emerging choristers?
If so... We need you!
Access Arts Community Choir is seeking an experienced co-facilitator/choral conductor to lead the choir and mentor a co-facilitator. People who are interested in this position should either have a tertiary qualification in voice or have equivalent experience particularly in choral singing. You will need to rehearse a range of contrasting repertoire, be open minded, be comfortable working with people who experience a disability or disadvantage and have fun!
About the Choir
The Access Arts Community Choir was formed in 2007 in response to community need. Supported by Access Arts, the choir is inclusive of people experiencing disability and disadvantage. Rehearsals will commence in February and are held on Saturdays from 1:30-3:30 PM at New Farm. (Venue to be advised.)
Payment: these are minimal and fluctuate depending on attendance however training and development opportunities may be offered by Access Arts.
Please contact Alyssa Maughan at Access Arts Inc on:
PH: (07) 3358 6200
Mob: 0400 703 159
Local Call Cost: 1300 663 651.
Level 1 Stores Building
Brisbane Powerhouse
119 Lamington Street,
PO Box 1034
New Farm, Q 4005.
Web: www.accessarts.org.au
E-mail: alyssa@accessarts.org.au
Art Workshops
When: 16th December.
Cost: Each workshop costs $25-00
ART SMART - 16th December from 9am - 12pm.
Learn how to promote, present and document your art. The art of marketing, media relations, and more. A full set of tools/information is provided to take with you to help with your career. Bookings essential.
LIFE ART - 16th December 1pm - 5pm.
Learn the secrets of figurative drawing using Charcoal and Pastels from a Live model. Gain insight into the technical process and creative options. All materials supplied. Limited spaces available. Reservations: 0415 519 942 or onesun@optusnet.com.au.
Raw Space Galleries - Exhibition Opening
Friday 11 January 6.00pm
Recent works by emerging artists Lisa Blake and Becky Down
99 Melbourne St South Brisbane
Ph: 3844 8852
Opening hours: 7am - 4pm
Exhibition continues until Tuesday 29th January
The people of Brisbane sing 'Handel's Messiah' with guest artists:
Hayley Kitchener, Anne Fulton, Marcus Lacy, Steve Beck, Geoff Spiller and Jason Barry-Smith as conductor.
Sunday 16th December
Choral Rehearsal at 5.00pm
Performance at 7.00 pm
Cost: $7.50
Albert Street Uniting Church
cnr Ann and Albert Streets
Ph: 3031 3030
New Farm Neighbourhood Centre General Administration Worker - full time (6 months)
Social and Community Services Award Level 4
Salary Sacrifice available.
Are you a 'people person' with skills in administration? The New Farm Neighbourhood Centre has a short-term position available, with a possibility for this to be extended if funding allows.
The Centre is a busy and dynamic organisation that works with a broad range of the local community, including people facing homelessness and disadvantage. Contact the centre for the Selection Criteria and a Position Description.
Please forward Expression of Interest by COB Friday 21 December 2007:
The Coordinator
(New Farm Neighbourhood Centre)
967 Brunswick St
PO Box 1530
New Farm 4006
Ph: 3358 5600
Email: info@newfarmneighbourhood.org.
Big Square Eye
'A dark room is cluttered with screens and monitors all bearing oversized eyes which blink intermittently, creating a visual staccato throughout the space. Occasionally, and without warning, a retina dilates and a cornea solarizes to reveal an interior video work.'
BIG SQUARE EYE will bring together young people from across Brisbane and Queensland to produce a DVD of 15 multimedia works for widespread exhibition during Brisbane Festival 2008.
A participant from each of the 15 workshops held in January and February next year will be selected to produce works for the exhibition. In April, they will participate in a four-day project induction to be held in Brisbane which will include video-animation skills development and work with the five media artists.
Each participant will then receive technical support to collaborate with one of the media artists to produce their own short (1-3minutes) video or animation artwork. All 15 final works will be compiled onto a DVD which will be exhibited at QUT Creative Industries Precinct and online and in retail outlets across Queensland as part of Brisbane Festival 2008.
More than 100,000 viewers will see the final work in diverse locations across Queensland and online.
How to get involved:
We are holding 15 FREE video-art and animation workshops in 15 locations across Brisbane and Queensland in January and February 2008. No video or animation experience is necessary and all equipment will be provided. Workshops are suitable for ages 16-20 years. The workshops will be led by five of Queensland's most talented media artists: Kate Geck, Archie Moore, Luke Ilett, Alan Nguyen and Ross Manning.
To register your interest to attend one of the workshops, please email Vivian Hogg at vivian@brisbanefestival.com.au with 'BSEWorkshop' in the subject line.
There are only 15 places available in each workshop.
The workshops will be held in the following locations:
