Robert Taylor talks about his new art show – B1 English Reading Test

Robert Taylor talks about his new art show

Like all children, I was always getting myself and the kitchen table in a mess when I first took an interest in painting. Unlike many kids, who give up activities like art for other subjects when they go through school, I continued painting throughout my childhood. Now, after years of enjoyment, I’ve finally taken the scary decision to show off some of my favourite pieces of work by holding an exhibition at Glebe Street library. Inviting people to see my work is a new idea and one which I’m looking forward to.

I’ve never had any formal art training. When I was trying to decide what I should study at university, art as a subject never entered my head. I always thought my parents wanted me to follow a subject that would be useful when I was looking for a job, so I ended up taking a business course. Looking back, my parents would probably have supported me whatever my decision, but I decided to do what I thought was best for everyone.

And during my time at university, I rarely did much in the way of painting. It wouldn’t have been easy to paint anyway as I lived in university accommodation and had very little space. I kept an interest in art though and visited local exhibitions whenever I could, but that was about it. It was later in my thirties while I was working that I discovered my love of the activity again. Since then I’ve made a point of spending at least one evening a week painting.

However, my works have only ever been seen by trusted friends and relatives. They’ve always given me plenty of support and encouraged me to continue with my art. But I’ve always wondered what people who I didn’t know would think, people who could give me an honest opinion of my ability. The library have been very helpful and offered me a room for the show. They’ve asked me to supply questionnaires about the event and I’ve included a section for visitors· comments about the works. I’m very much looking forward to reading these opinions.

1   What does Robert say about art?

      A   Children usually continue doing it at school.

      B   He had to give it up to do other subjects.

      C   The thought of showing off his work is a little frightening.

      D   He has often thought about letting people see his work.

2   When deciding what to study at university

      A   Robert didn’t consider doing art.

      B   his parents didn’t want him to study art.

      C   he thought he would need a job while he was studying.

      D   Robert understood correctly what his parents wanted him to do.

3   What happened while Robert was at university?

      A   He didn’t do any painting.

      B   He discovered his love of painting again.

      C   He was still keen on art.

      D   He painted at least one evening a week.

4   Robert is holding the exhibition because

      A   his friends and relatives encouraged him to do this.

      B   the library asked him to.

      C   he is interested in getting opinions from friends and relatives.

      D   he wants to know what strangers think of his work.

5   What would be a good introduction to this article?

      A   Robert Taylor tells us how a love of art can lead to a change of career.

      B   If your child shows an interest in art, Robert Taylor will explain how to support this activity.

      C   After years in the shadows, Robert Taylor is about to face the public with his works.

      D   If you’re keen on developing your artistic skills, Robert Taylor explains how to get support from friends and relatives.