Returning school art exhibition praised by Sudbury mayor

The return of a popular school art exhibition – postponed last year due to the pandemic – has been declared a sweeping success.

A-level and GCSE students at Thomas Gainsborough School, in Great Cornard, saw their artwork exhibited at the traditional end of term event with parents and guests invited over a two-hour period.

Guest of honour, Sudbury mayor Sue Ayres (pictured above with some of the students) paid tribute to the work on show while TGS staff praised the creativity of the students.

Angela Bowman, art teacher and event organiser, said: “The end of year exhibition is always a special occasion. But for many students, they were showcasing work they had created during lockdown. That presented its own challenges, but we are very proud of both their resilience and expertise.”

Ed Clark, head of art, added: “The exhibition highlights the importance of creativity on the wellbeing of young people.

“It can be an incredibly cathartic experience as shown by the amount of work that focused on lockdown or mental health. But it also highlights what an asset the arts is to the whole country. That message has never been more important.”

Student Madalene Howard with some of her work.

The exhibition featured a varied selection of work in different media including fine art, textile design and photography while a performing arts showcase was also held.

Mrs Ayres said: “I was so impressed with the standard of student work in the exhibition and would like to also praise the teachers and everyone who helped make the event such a success.”