ART SHOW 2023 Kaveh K, Year 11 writes...

This year’s GCSE Art and Design exhibition presented a diverse variety of interesting and talented art from both art and graphic communication pupils.

Following a moderator inspection, pupils, their families and acquaintances travelled to the now radiant drama studio, on Thursday 22nd June, to see pieces from eleven different boys. Most pupils did GCSE Graphic Communication consisting of three projects: a book cover, chocolate box and an examined component with a set theme from the exam board (this year’s was “Lock”). Our remaining GCSE Art, Craft and Design pupils also did two coursework projects and a final lock themed exam.

Everyone interpreted the “Lock” theme in a variety of ways, from magazines on harsh, brutalist architecture to cybersecurity websites for GCSE Graphics, and tied sculptures and animals trying to “escape” their environment from those doing GCSE Art, Craft and Design. Each coursework project was unique and stood out, and it was interesting to clearly visualise the developing artistry of each pupil as their work became more nuanced and unique, developing their own personal flair for their projects.

As teachers and parents appreciated the displays, pupils were glad to explain their thought processes and ideas for each item. Certainly for me, having studied GCSE Graphic Communication, it was very satisfying to finally see my portfolio as one complete and cohesive collection.

Entering the exhibition presented viewers with works by Teo C and myself. For his exam project, Teo made an exciting airshow themed project with hanging model planes and detailed guides for the fictional event. I had made a walking guide to “unlock” postwar architecture in Camden with an accompanying website to visit.

Javier P’s exam project was a book cover for Shawshank Redemption, while Greg G made radiant graffiti-based sculptures, lighting up his corner. In front, Edward M’s range of electronic devices marketed his fictional cybersecurity firm, and Abe F had a series of interlocking photos of derelict and abandoned buildings in London.

Further on, Vangelis F.s exam project was a reimagined record cover for punk rock band Clash, complete with 90s style mood boards and photos. Oscar F made a stunningly simple yet captivating mock brutalist architecture magazine, including a full page example, website and range of possible covers. Jake J’s pocket of nature was a cover for Lord of the Flies, with textured leaves and even bookmarks to advertise his cover.

Finally, towards the back, Alexei M had a towering book cover for brutalist architecture, while Coby L had striking sculptures of octopuses trying to “escape” the confines of the ocean they were trapped in, next to a huge hanging 3D work.

Here is a small selection of the many stunning pieces at the exhibition.