Tina Mation is the creator and presenter of children’s television art shows on RTÉ since 1995 and in that time has shown millions of children (and adults alike) just how easy it is to draw.

In 1995 Tina made her first series for RTÉ’s Education Department and her programmes have appeared on the National Station ever since. She also has appeared live on television in the UK and the US, with live radio appearances also in Australia. Her “Don’t Just Draw … Animate” series has also been broadcast in the UK and all over the Middle East. Currently Tina shows are airing twice daily across Ireland, UK and Europe on Sky channel 191 and Freeview 400.

Tina has published over 50 “how to” draw and animate books, DVD & CD-ROM sets plus her famous animation kits and draw packs.

Tina’s “Shoe Lace Principle” is used to explain the simplicity of her approach to art and why she believes that anybody can learn it. Once you are shown and you know where to place the circles to suit whatever character you are drawing, with a little practice, like tying your shoe lace, you will have it for life.

Tina came to visit St Declan’s today. All classes from first to sixth attended drawing workshops throughout the day in the PE hall. The children really enjoyed the day and produced some really creative drawings.

Thank you to Julia Olzynska from Ms Curran’s fourth class who won 500 euro as a prize for an art competition. This helped go towards the cost of the art workshops and the balance was subsidised by the Board Of Management.