A glorious June evening heralded the opening of the Summer Art Exhibition, as VIP’s, students, parents and other friends of the College, gathered to view student art work and applaud the achievements of student artists.

Student models strutted their stuff in a Fashion Show, which took place amongst the exhibits and provided a perfect platform for student work in Textiles.

Pieces from BTEC Art and Design, A2 Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography and Textiles are on display. Sponsored by NADFAS (The National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies) and FDR Promotions, the Summer Art Exhibition continues at the College until Friday 19th June 2015.

The College was honoured to welcome special guests for the Private View, including Sir Gerald Howarth, newly re-elected MP for Aldershot, and Lady Howarth, the new Mayor of Rushmoor, Councillor Martin Tennant and Phil Stoneman from Rushmoor Borough Council. Colonel Charlie Lambert, Aldershot Garrison Commander and Peter Collins Head Teacher of Fernhill School, together with Art Teachers from local partner schools, were amongst the VIP’s at the awards reception.

Phil Stoneman, Economic Development Officer, Rushmoor Borough Council commented "What can I say about the exhibition, other than it was fantastic. It really is hard to believe that young students have achieved such a high standard of creative skills, producing such a diverse range of unique work."

Simon Jarvis, Principal of the College, expressed his pride at the quality of the work on display "I am delighted to say art is alive, well and flourishing at the College. The art work on show fully reflects fabulous imagination, coupled with the technical skills and power to express – but of course, they have been encouraged and inspired by brilliant teachers."

Representatives of Conspiracy Art, the College’s Young Enterprise team, promoted student art on the night.

Prizes were awarded by each Curriculum area, to students whose artistic talent was showcased on the night.

Fine Art Award Winners were Aidan Sakakini and Micaela McTeggart, Paul Ayres, Curriculum Manager, Fine Art said, “Aidan is a highly creative and experimental student. His technical skill is outstanding and Aidan’s final painting is impressive, bold and wouldn’t look out of place in a gallery.”

“Micaela is a committed student and has recently found a real niche in geometric patterns. These patterns have been carefully designed and constructed into contemporary sculptures in nature which are original and exciting.”

Graphic Design award winners were Beth Knapp and Jake Garrard, comments from their teachers were:

“Beth is an incredibly talented designer who works exceptionally hard and puts her all in to everything that she does.”

“Jake has been an exceptional student, his work has pushed the envelope in terms of media, materials and execution”. 

Photography Award Winners were Reece Frimpong and Zoe Pagulatos, Hanno Niemand, Curriculum Manager for Photography said, “Reece has shown exceptional commitment and management of time during the year.”

“Zoe’s passion and drive within photography made her stand out. She was a pleasure to teach as she had a natural creative flair."

Textiles Award Winners were Melissa Collins and Frances Tidey, Emma Fahy, Curriculum Manager for Textiles commented, “Melissa is an extremely dedicated and talented textiles student. She has always brightened up the room with her positive attitude and bright smile."

"Frances is an incredible Textile artist who has produced the most beautifully sensitive Textile pieces over the year. Her work ethic is superb."