Public invited to draw on windows and tables at ROQ

For one weekend only, visitors will be encouraged to draw on the windows and tables of the Mathematical Institute building.

This is one of the highlights of the free drop-in workshops aimed at families which will be held on the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter (ROQ) site from noon until 4pm on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October.

The event will introduce people to the Alchemical Tree, a sculpture by Simon Periton which will be installed on the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter (ROQ) site in 2015.

The concepts underpinning the Alchemical Tree will be explained at the drop-in workshops, which will take place in the Mathematical Institute.

At the workshops, artist Nabil Ali will demonstrate how to make natural paint colours and then teach others to mix and use their own alchemical colours.

Local artist Vicky Vergou will lead a tour of the ROQ then invite people to draw on windows and tables in the common room of the Mathematical Institute.

Simon Periton said: 'These exciting workshops will offer the participants an insight into some of the creative processes and mysteries enjoyed by artists for centuries and will help create a greater awareness of and engagement with my commission for the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter.'

The Alchemical Tree is a silver sculpture with a golden crown around its trunk. It will be complemented by smaller works placed across the site which relate to the central tree.

Mr Periton explained: 'The tree symbolises the process of growth and transformation experienced by students as they develop their ideas through focused study at the University; the crown represents the successful attainment of a higher state, a realisation of perfection.'

The workshops are organised by Modus Operandi in association with The Big Draw and Family Arts Festival. The activities are aimed at everyone from the age of six.