Freya Palmer (Upper Sixth Art Scholar) has curated an open-air 'Lockdown' art exhibition, which celebrates the work of Bede's pupils from March to November this year.
Freya says: “This exhibition features work completed by students from across all year groups created either during or about Lockdown. We chose to host the exhibition outside in the centre of the school campus to make it more accessible; the fact that students can easily see the work on their way to lessons and at break and lunchtimes means that more people can enjoy it. In this way, the Lockdown exhibition stands out from the School’s annual GCSE and A Level showcases, which – although brilliant – are hosted indoors and show the very best work produced by students studying the creative arts. This exhibition was open to students of all year groups and abilities, and it was so exciting to see a wide range of work come through, with some brilliant entries from students who chose to get involved purely for the enjoyment of it.
“I really enjoyed putting the exhibition together – it was a wonderful way to put my love for art to a new use, and I learned a lot about organisation and project management, as well as the more practical side of curating an exhibition. I also loved being able to help showcase the creative talents across the school, as well as help to highlight youth opinion on the Lockdown and the challenging year that we’ve all experienced.
“I would like to thank Ms Woollett, Mr Turner and the Art department for all of their support with the project.”
Jonathan Turner, Head of Creative Arts at Bede's, adds: “The variety of work was astonishing and would have been impressive at any point. The fact the art works were produced during this turbulent point in history is even more impressive. Some works directly relate to the times. Alfie Collins Smith captured London in the height of lockdown – the buzzing metropolis eerily silent. Mareva Lelong dramatic illustration depicts Lockdown as an all-encompassing beast dominating us – until you peer into the center of the piece where a figure can be found at peace, drinking tea, surrounded by cats and drawing – finding sanctuary in the quiet of lockdown. Other works are just joyous – showing how the act of making images can give our life purpose. Emily Scott’s surreal portrait depict a painted figure that seems otherworldly and serine. Lucy Dreweks painting of honey dripping from fingers has an almost photorealist quality.
“All the entries were excellent and there has been a whole array of great work being produced throughout the term. It makes you excited for what 2021 will bring.”
Explore the Bede's 'Lockdown' exhibition online
