Aluredian
32
A
rmed with sketchbooks,
pencils and cameras, 6th
form artists headed to
the Victoria and Albert
Museum in February, in
preparation for
forthcoming exams. Once there, the focus
was the Cast Courts, which on its opening
in 1873 was compared to glimpsing Mont
Blanc for the first time! The vast rooms
contain plaster casts of sculptures,
monuments and even a full-sized replica of
Trajan's column. The pupils set about work
in earnest, selecting elements of the
sculptures to draw. Photography students
were also treated to a specialist gallery of
work. There was then a brief opportunity to
explore further and gain an insight into the
huge diversity of artefacts on display.
In complete contrast, the afternoon was
spent at Kew Gardens. Here, the
glasshouses, with impressive palm trees and
stunning orchid and cacti displays, provided
many visually exciting opportunities for
drawing and photography. It was a busy
day ,which provided much new creative
inspiration.
David Cheung
photographing in
the Cast Court
In preparation for their coursework
unit, 4th form artists spent an
afternoon in June drawing at
Montacute House. Since 1975, the
National Portrait Gallery has housed
over 60 of its oldest portraits on the
top floor of this beautiful house. These
include a magnificent portrait of Henry VIII
and the famous 'Armada' painting of Elizabeth I.
Historical portraits allow us fascinating insights
into past times and our artists were intrigued
by the extraordinarily fine detail in the faces
and elaborate costumes.
Our pupils worked hard throughout their time
at Montacute House, and were highly praised
by the National Trust staff who were impressed
by their focus and behaviour.