THE SKETCHING technique of drawing human figures and anatomy has been mastered by this year’s Riddoch Art Gallery Visual Arts Award recipient Sean Fergusson.
The 17-year-old started his artistic journey as a child, with his hobby eventually transforming into a passion.
“I liked drawing when I was growing up and I just kept doing it,” he said.
“I enjoy drawing anatomy and human figures besides the face, because I can not draw faces.
“I really like the technicality of it and being able to draw all the details, as well as trying to make things as 3D as possible.”
The budding artist was recently involved in a project with Adelaide Hills-based artist Cynthia Schwertsik, which was launched earlier this month.
The former Grant High School student helped the artist undertake her public art installation on the entrance of Mount Gambier’s Civic Centre, with the seven pillars painted in traditional Boandik land colours and symbolic phrases.
As Ms Schwertsik’s mentee, Mr Fergusson said he enjoyed the experience.
“It started through my mum’s friend, who originally asked her to work with Cynthia,” he said.
“Mum then began to grow tired of sanding and preparing the poles, so she called me to and I thought it was a great opportunity.
“I was not really waiting for anything to happen, it just happened and I was happy to help.”
Mr Fergusson said he was surprised he enjoyed painting and said he enjoyed writing the words inspired by the region’s history and current signage around the district.
“I guess, maybe in the future I may look into further projects which involve painting,” he said.
“It was a great experience and I really enjoyed it.”
Looking at pursuing a career in the artistic industry, Mr Fergusson said he was considering becoming a tattooist or an art teacher.
“I have always liked the style of tattoos and I always admired my art teachers because they understood what I enjoyed,” he said.
“I really want to be able to help people like my teachers did.
“I actually had an offer to complete a bachelor of primary education so if all goes to plan, I’ll complete that after a gap year.”
Mr Fergusson said his skills had developed through practice and patience.
“I feel like my friends enjoy looking at my work and they always say they are unable to do what I do,” he said.
“I think my skills have improved more over the last year.”
Mr Fergusson was awarded for a piece of art painted in water colours during Year 12 studies.
