On Friday the 17 June, the John Guy building played host to a wonderfully eclectic range of artwork from departing art and design students as part of this year's summer art exhibition. 

Encompassing the disciplines of fine art, graphics, textiles and photography, the way these hugely talented students conveyed aspects of the world we live in through a myriad of perspectives and angles was both hugely impressive, exciting and full of creative vision and imagination.

From Claire Frank's and Sol Harding's mysterious and dark fine art depictions to Annie Male's sharp Northern Lights graphic's work, we got a taste of viewing the world through the prism of these talented artists. In photography, Shannon Stewart's cascading McDonalds to Katie Stocker's suspended collage of portraits and hanging keys in textiles demonstrated their full range of creativity and invention. 

Matt Sheppard, Director of Faculty, commented on the “unique and special atmosphere” that transformed the John Guy building on the night. And speaking to parents he confirmed how “amazed” and “impressed” several were with the “sheer innovation and mature way many had decided to depict and even comment on this complicated world we all live in."  

Rose Davies, Senior Curriculum Manager for graphics commented, “Myself and the department are very proud of the professional, creative work on display. The students have worked very hard to produce such inspiring work. Many of the students are going on to do creative courses which is very exciting.”

Following the exhibition and in a new venture for art and design, the year's work was suitably celebrated the following Tuesday with a fashion and awards evening in the Prospect Theatre. Much of the textiles work was on display as the evening opened with a hugely professional fashion show. Models strode confidently and serenely up and down the catwalk displaying the amazing designs of these young artists. And the evening concluded with a celebration of the best of the best and the art and design awards in each of the discreet areas.

Paul Ayres, Curriculum Manager for fine art, “We are so proud of the fantastic artwork that our students create, and seeing the artwork combined together in the end of year exhibition is a great way to celebrate their achievements. The award ceremony is a lovely way to highlight those students who have gone above and beyond, and really was a lovely event. Each year our students keep pushing the boundary of excellence!”