School artwork on show at National Gallery

Students from Quay Academy in Bridlington are celebrating a major achievement as their artwork is set to be displayed at the National Gallery in London this summer. The school participated in the Take One Picture project, an annual event that encourages children to create their own art inspired by a selected masterpiece from the gallery. This year, the chosen painting was A Courtyard of a House in Delft by Pieter de Hooch, a Dutch artist known for his detailed scenes of everyday life in the 17th century. The painting features a woman and a child in a sunlit courtyard, with another woman standing in an arched passageway. The National Gallery highlights how the painting not only shows de Hooch's talent for painting buildings but also his view of women's important roles in keeping the home stable and happy.

Over 83,000 children from 380 schools across the country took part in the Take One Picture project, but only 40 schools were selected to have their students' work displayed at the National Gallery. Quay Academy was among these successful schools, making the achievement even more special. The students at Quay Academy chose to focus their project on the theme of 'Doors and Archways,' inspired by the painting's setting. They titled their collection 'What's in your backyard? ' Each student created a unique piece of art, exploring what might be found behind doors and through archways, whether it was a real place, a memory, or something from their imagination. Some students painted gardens, others drew pets, and a few even imagined magical worlds hidden just out of sight.

Adele Wilde, the school's art lead, expressed her pride in the students' accomplishments. She said it was wonderful to see their efforts recognized on such a prestigious stage and that the project helped the children develop a deeper appreciation for art and the work of famous artists. Caroline Broadhead, the principal of Quay Academy, said the school was thrilled to be shortlisted for the second year in a row and that the students had really enjoyed the creative challenge. The free exhibition at the National Gallery will run until August 31, giving visitors a chance to see the imaginative and thoughtful artwork created by children from across the country, including those from Quay Academy. This event not only celebrates young artists but also encourages more children to engage with art and express their creativity.