Pupils from Kingsbury Green Academy are celebrating officially becoming sold artists, having achieved this milestone in their burgeoning careers thanks to exhibiting in the recent Calne Music and Arts Festival.
Five pupils exhibited at the festival, which was open to artists of all ages and stages of their careers. The work was produced as part of their GCSE Art course and used a variety of techniques to produce evocative and thought-provoking pieces.
Whilst not all of the pieces exhibited were for sale, two were snapped up by buyers with a keen eye for talent; a photographic manipulation piece by pupil Leon and an edited photo of a butterfly by fellow classmate Hollie.
Other works of arts on show included an oil pastel portrait of someone eating spaghetti by Katie; an oil pastel self-portrait on the theme of reflections by Hollie; and a biro piece inspired by photographer Jason Travis that explores the issues of female safety and Sarah Everard.
Leon, who is now in Year 12, explained, “I really didn’t expect to sell anything at the exhibition but I’m really pleased someone bought it. She said her kids were really into the piece and that’s why she chose it, which was great to hear.”
Katie added, “I wanted to exhibit at the festival as I thought it would be good experience to see other artists. The festival was really good again this year; I’ve been before and got lots of inspiration from the artworks on display.”
Principal of Kingsbury Green Academy, Jason Tudor, said, “Exhibiting at the Calne Music and Arts Festival is a great opportunity for our pupils as they get to see behind the scenes of this excellent community event, as well as meet lots of visitors and local businesses.
“The five pupils were also exhibiting alongside Kingsbury Green Academy art teacher, Emma Bennett, and so they were able to have the same experience as established artists, which is priceless in helping them understand and explore future career paths available to them.”
Kingsbury Green Academy is part of the Ascend Learning Trust. For more information, visit www.kingsburygreenacademy.com