August/September
2007
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by Jess Nolan |
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On July first and second, Internationally recognized Vancouver
artist James Picard, along with 50 teenagers, sketched and created self-portraits
in a painting frenzy that went on late into the night. Spotlights were
set up as the sun slowly set in the serene setting of Loon Lake in Maple
Ridge.
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James Picard has been teaching children and teens
how to paint for over a decade. From youth at risk in Harlem to
underprivileged and sick children across B.C., James has brought
creativity to those who need it most. With the help from OPUS and
a few other sponsors who donated supplies for the two-day workshop,
James, along with the help of several volunteers including two of
his long-time students, helped the Camp Good Times Teens bring out
their creative inner artist with a day of sketching and on the following
day, turning sketches into canvas paintings.
Many of the teens had never painted before and were somewhat reluctant
to create an image of themselves but their efforts surpassed all
expectations that the workshop held.
“The final paintings were astonishing and the energy, enthusiasm
and talent were awe-inspiring,” said Picard, “It was
so wonderful to be involved in such an exciting and worthwhile project.” |
This was the first time that the Teen program (ages 15
– 18) was held at Camp Good Times and was a resounding success,
based on the thunderous applause and hollering of all paint splattered
participants. Camp Good Times was established by the Canadian Cancer Society
in 1985 and provides, at no cost o the family a safe, happy and challenging
camping experience for children aged 6 – 18 who have been affected
by cancer.
For more information please go to www.bc.cancer.ca
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