Art

Art thrives at S. Anselm’s, offering children opportunities for creativity, imagination and expression as well as the inspiration of studying major artists, artistic movements and cultures from across the world.

Art thrives at S. Anselm’s, offering children opportunities for creativity, imagination and expression as well as the inspiration of studying major artists, artistic movements and cultures from across the world.

The Art Department’s studio is light and airy, with an adjoining pottery studio.  The Department also houses its own sizeable library of art and art history books.

Schemes of work offer the opportunity to experience drawing, painting, collage, print-making, textiles, ceramics and sculpture.

The teaching of art at S. Anselm’s allows children to become better learners by being creative-risk takers, collaborators, communicators and responsive, reflective and critical thinkers. The focus on creativity and imagination allows children to produce new and original ideas of their own. They are given opportunities to develop creative thinking skills and to become excellent problem-solvers.

A feeling of ownership and meaning is important in children’s work. Being inventive is valued. Imagination is used in artwork to visualise fresh ideas. In an area where there are no ’right’ answers, children learn to appreciate diversity, individuality and uniqueness.

A skills-based approach is considered important, allowing children to achieve competence with a number of skills, processes, tools and materials. With increased control and understanding of the different media, they will be able to experiment with more confidence and be empowered to express themselves and communicate their ideas.

Observational drawing is taught to allow children to feel the power of having captured the world they see. Careful observational drawing improves problem solving skills as the children learn how to translate what they see into form, line, space, texture and colour.

Looking at the work of artists and artefacts from other cultures is an integral part of the schemes of work. It is an essential part of building knowledge and understanding. Being introduced to art and culture with a global or historical perspective develops cultural awareness, sensitivity and appreciation of diversity.

 

Visits

Visits are arranged throughout the school year to give children the opportunity to appreciate both permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as meet experts and artists around the country.

Extra-Art

For pupils’ who show potential in this subject, in Year 6 and above, there is an after-school Extra-Art club. There is also an after-school pottery club open to all members of the school.

Prizes and Scholarships

S. Anselm’s children have been successful in winning a number of art and design prizes in competitions such as the Shrewsbury School Art and Design/Technology Competition and the international IAPs Art Competition.