Student’s A-level art inspired by Cathedral’s ancient library

A student has achieved an A* A-Level grade on an art assignment inspired by St Edmundsbury Cathedral’s ancient library.

Charlie Norman, who studied Art and Design at Abbeygate Sixth Form College, achieved an A* in art at A-Level this past August and is continuing his studies within the Eastern Education Group on the Art Foundation Course at West Suffolk College.

For his final externally set assignment, Charlie explored medieval manuscripts and etchings, which led to his visit to the Ancient Library at St Edmundsbury Cathedral.

Charlie said: “With the help of the keeper of the library, Stephen Dart, I explored the collection of books for research and to provide stylistic guidance.”

Charlie then had 15 hours in exam conditions to create the pair of manuscript leaves on the sins Pride and Gluttony, which will be exhibited in the Treasury at the Cathedral in a new exhibition called ‘Inspired in the Ancient Library’.

Louise Gridley, Charlie’s art teacher at Abbeygate Sixth Form said: “It’s wonderful that the Cathedral are showcasing Charlie’s work. He is such a diligent student and deserves this recognition – not only on account of his creative and technical realisation but for his historical scrutiny also.

“The Cathedral helped provide such meaningful and contextual material which enabled Charlie to fulfil his artistic intentions whilst exploring this rich, cultural heritage.”

St Edmundsbury Cathedral visitor experience manager, Sarah Friswell, said: “We regularly exhibit books from our Ancient Library in the Cathedral treasury. On this occasion it is wonderful to showcase the work of a student who has created his own artwork from these inspirational books.”

The Cathedral treasury is free to visit and is open to visitors Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm and Sunday, 12.30pm to 3pm.