REPORT BY MRS SHAW, LEAD TEACHER OF ART
A group of our talented Year 10 GCSE Art students recently enjoyed an exciting and inspiring visit to the University of Lancashire as part of a three-workshop programme designed to enrich their artistic skills and experiences.
The first workshop focused on printmaking and was delivered within the ArtLab, a contemporary print studio based in the University's historic Victoria Building. Students were introduced to a range of professional printmaking techniques and gained valuable insight into how artists and designers use print processes within the creative industries.
As part of the visit, students were given an exclusive tour of the University's specialist printmaking department. They explored a fascinating collection of historic printing presses, including one remarkable press that had been salvaged from a local farm and lovingly restored. Students were also able to see how a large-scale layered screen-printing machine operates, providing a unique glimpse into the professional processes used to create complex multi-coloured prints.
Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to experiment with both lino relief printing and screen printing. Using professional equipment and guidance from university staff, they produced a variety of creative outcomes that will contribute directly to their GCSE Art portfolio.
One of the highlights of the day was screen printing a unique design onto a canvas tote bag, which students then personalised further using coloured pens to create vibrant patterns and decorative details. They also explored lino printing, designing and carving imagery linked to their own individual GCSE portfolio themes.
The workshop not only allowed students to develop new technical skills but also gave them a valuable first-hand experience of studying Art at university level. Students thoroughly enjoyed working in a professional studio environment, meeting experts in the field, and gaining an insight into the exciting opportunities available within higher education and the creative arts sector.
It was a fantastic day of experimentation and discovery, and we are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, maturity and artistic talent our students demonstrated throughout the visit. The experience has already provided valuable inspiration and practical work for their portfolios, and we look forward to sharing updates from the next two workshops in the next newsletter in the coming weeks.
