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Two weeks ago, Sarah Graham hosted a workshop for our Year 10 pupils, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn and engage with her artistic expertise.
The day commenced with an insightful presentation on Graham’s artistic journey, starting with her transformation of a derelict attic into a public art space. Notable commissions during Graham’s career included painting a series for Harrods to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the ‘Wizard of Oz,’ creating artwork for a Kaiser Chiefs album, and a recent painting that sold for £38,000.
At the start of the day, pupils delved into the world of charcoal, tasked with rendering their cuddly toys on paper. This exercise, designed to ignite creativity and foster teamwork, saw pupils working in a rotation, each contributing to the evolving drawings of their peers.
The main task, a highlight of the collaboration, involved the pupils partnering with Sarah Graham to create their own photo-realistic paintings. Graham is celebrated for her meticulous attention to detail and the ability to breathe life into her subjects; she guided our young artists through the intricacies of this demanding art form. The results were nothing short of astonishing.
The pupils demonstrated an exceptional level of accuracy in their work, capturing intricate details with precision. The colours, chosen with care and purpose, were bright and saturated, reflecting a keen awareness of pop culture aesthetics. Graham’s influence on the pupils’ artistry was palpable, as they embraced the challenge and produced paintings that mirrored the depth and vibrancy characteristic of her own creations.
The collaborative process not only enriched their technical skills but also provided a platform for self-expression and artistic exploration. For many pupils, the experience was deemed invaluable. This collaboration stands as a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering creativity and exposing pupils to diverse artistic perspectives. The impact of this experience will leave an indelible mark on the budding artists who had the privilege of collaborating with Sarah Graham.
In addition Graham was so inspired by the high standard of work on exhibition in the school, she asked to meet some of our artists to discuss their coursework pieces in more detail. She found work resembled the maturity and sophistication found at degree level. A wonderful day for all involved.
- Mrs. Nichols, Director of Visual Arts
Special thanks to Sarah Graham, whose artistry served as inspiration for our budding talents at RMS during the workshop, and thanks to Mrs. Nichols and the art department for coordinating such an enriching experience for our pupils.