“Art is anything you can get away with” - Marshall McLuhan

I chose art because from a young age I always enjoyed it and appreciated it in all forms; from modern, realism, to abstract. It's fascinating to me all the different ways you can express and perceive the world via different forms of art through different ideas and perceptions. I have been inspired by a number of artists throughout my time doing GCSE art and it has been a very interesting two years learning about all these different forms of artwork.

Art is a process of learning to create ourselves and experience the world in new ways. Art supports the bigger picture view of life; beauty, symbols, spirituality, storytelling. It also helps us step out of time, allowing one to be present in the moment. It is one of the best ways to express yourself and show the world some things that you cannot express through speech. Art keeps the magic alive. I have watched what I am feeling inside, the invisible sentiments of my mind, become beauty on paper and transport themselves into my art and whatever it is I feel. I think that is the main beauty.

Ever since I was little art has been an integral part of my life, no matter what changes took place, art was the constant in my equation - so it only made sense that I choose it for my GCSE. One way to describe my style is experimental. I love to experiment, whether it is with subjects, materials or moods it doesn’t matter as long as it’s new. I’ve dabbled in almost everything when it comes to art. My inspiration has always been and will continue to be my mother; she was the one who introduced me to not only visual art, but also writing and reading and it was her who encouraged me to pursue it. My experience with GCSE art has had its ups and downs, but it has helped me expand and explore beyond the limitations of my own comfort zone. I have grown, not just in my skills, but as a person and with the help and motivation of my teachers and fellow classmates. Special thanks to Mrs de Vito for guiding me through the rough waters of year 11 smoothly and Miss Pardoe for her motivational quotes and jokes to get us through the day.

16 - Egyptian

“Have no fear of perfection, you will never reach it” - Salvador Dali

16 - South African

To me art is an extension of our inner thoughts, of a different point of view. From a young age I have loved drawing and painting. I find that my style can either be a mixture of realism, when I do observational art, or it can be quite abstract. The artworks that I have been attracted to were works that included either cubism or realism. Any works that have been a blend of opposite style, these type of art have always interested me. I don’t have a particular artist who inspires me, as I found that even looking at art that could be found anywhere on social media can creates that inspiration. However, if I had to pick a few then I would have to choose Raymond Logan or Mark Adlington. Both of these artists use a lot of colour and have one object where they put all of their focus on, to make it true to themselves. Other things that inspired me were animals and objects. Objects were especially inspirational, because when painting or drawing them I could morph and distort them to create new works that have similarities, but subtle differences.

I’ve always been fond of art since a very young age. What I like about art is that it allows me to explore my creativity, imagination, and emotions in a unique way. For me, art is a form of therapy that helps me to relax and unwind. It’s a way for me to escape from the stresses of everyday life and focus on something that I truly enjoy. I also love the way that art can tell a story or convey a message without the use of words. It’s a universal language that can be appreciated by people from all walks of life. Whether I’m creating art myself, or simply admiring the work of others, I always feel a sense of joy and fulfillment when I’m surrounded by artistic expression.