Listed as: Education/Training, Individual Artists
Darrell Wakelam is a professional artist who has spent over twenty years working in schools and other educational establishments as a workshop provider, project leader, consultant and trainer. During this time he has devised and delivered visual art projects in over five hundred Primary and Secondary schools and has also provided workshops for Museums, Theatres, Libraries and as a part of Festivals or Events.
Being involved in projects nationwide has given Darrell the experience of working creatively with children and young people of all ages and abilities and from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures and he has gradually built up a strong reputation as an innovative and highly skilled arts educator.
Darrell offers a broad range of 'visual art' workshops and projects and will tailor these to suit any age-group or any given theme. These sessions prove popular with both children and adults alike, not only for the variety of techniques on offer but also for the positive ethos that Darrell promotes.
Most of his artwork is made up of large scale 3D work, sculptures, masks and models. These are created using recycled scrap materials, cardboard construction methods and paper mache techniques.
"I always approach projects enthusiastically and try to make sure that all of the participants are involved and engaged as quickly as I can. I set clear boundaries for behaviour and try to incorporate as many of the children's ideas as possible. I like to create an atmosphere where children of all ages feel included and important. In this safe and positive environment they are able to be imaginative and take risks."
'Jurassic Fish Soup' is just one of Darrell's current 3D art projects on offer to Schools. This project aims to explore the fossils of the Jurassic Coast in a fun and creative way, unlocking the secrets of its amazing geology and helping to explain why it is such a globally important site.
I have spent over twenty years creating masks based on different creatures, cultures and civilisations. From simple, easy to make masks, for performance or display to larger more complex constructions for use in carnivals and events.
I love exploring ancient civilisations through their artwork, I have devised and delivered countless workshops and projects based on the Egyptians focusing on their architecture, murals, artefacts, jewellery and sculpture.
I love exploring ancient civilisations through their artwork, I have devised and delivered countless workshops and projects based on the Ancient Greeks focusing on their architecture, murals, artefacts, theatre and sculpture.
I love exploring ancient civilisations through their artwork, I have devised and delivered countless workshops and projects based on the Romans focusing on their architecture, mosaics, artefacts, weapons and sculpture.
I love exploring ancient civilisations through their artwork, I have devised and delivered countless workshops and projects based on the Aztecs focusing on their architecture, ceramics, artefacts, sculpture and masks.
Africa boasts a fantastic diversity of masks within its many cultures and tribes. Children of all ages love to create their own masks while exploring the stories and traditions behind these amazing faces.
I have created artwork for theatrical projects from infant school productions through to Shakespearean plays. I have provided set designs and constructed large scale installations and movable scenery and created masks and props for performances.
I have been making large scale masks and carnival creations for over twenty years from small school based productions to larger town carnivals. My work involves simple cardboard construction techniques which anyone of any age can join in with, making them perfect for schools or community groups.