General News
30 July, 2024
Talented artist unveils a wealth of expertise in woodblock prints
Horsham resident Jonathon Schoolderman's world revolves around his artwork.
Art has helped Mr Schoolderman, 39, who has Prader Willi syndrome, to regulate and express his feelings and create a wealth of unique and intricate artworks.
He has opened his second exhibition, titled ‘Out of the Bag’, with 10 woodblock prints and 10 paintings, now on show at Horsham's Redrock Books and Gallery in Firebrace Street until August 3.
Art mentor Anthony Pelchen has tutored Mr Schoolderman on the use of paint on paper, canvas and now plywood.
Prader Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder usually caused by lack of a part of chromosome-15 and passed down through men.
Having a mild intellectual disability, being shorter in stature than the average adult and experiencing constant hunger are some of the symptoms.
There is no cure but supervised diet and hormone therapy help.
With support from the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Mr Schoolderman has set goals and has support to carve out a career as an artist.
Mr Pelchen said Mr Schoolderman put his total energy into everything he created.
"I marvel at how far he's come and the depths of his talent," he said.
"Art has given him a tangible and beneficial way of negotiating his life."
Mr Pelchen said Mr Schoolderman was working with one of the oldest art techniques: woodblock printing.
"He is quite extraordinary," Mr Pelchen said.
"He has a natural instinct for colour and design so my mission is to expand that talent.
"It's a pleasure to see his woodblocks develop to a printed artwork."
The exhibition opened Tuesday July 9 and all artworks are for sale.