St Matthew’s pupils showcase art in Harbour Arts Centre exhibition

An impactful art exhibition highlights the diverse talents of secondary school pupils.

St Matthew’s Academy pupils from S1 to S3 showcasing their work at Studio 1 of the Harbour Arts Centre at Irvine Harbourside.

First opened at the start of June, the exhibition will be on display until Friday, June 20.

The exhibition showcases the very best of the works completed by the local secondary school pupils during their Art and Design classes over the past academic year.

In a mix of styles including, drawings, paintings, landscapes, paper mache jewellery, portraits, mixed media and sculptures, the exhibition has something for everyone to enjoy and is a feast for the eyes.

An S1 pupil taking part shared: “I was really excited when I found out my painting had been shortlisted for the exhibition. I feel really proud seeing it up there on the wall of a real art gallery.”

Another pupil added: “I took inspiration from the nature around North Ayrshire, particularly bird life. Although I took this route, I feel really inspired by the different works that everyone else submitted. We are all really unique and talented in our own way. It’s great to be a part of it all.”

The art exhibition follows on from the first St Matthew’s Academy Art and Design awards ceremony for Artists of the Year where S1 pupil Grace Ryan, S2 pupil Danaleigh Howie and S3 pupil Sophie Blautenburg were crowned as the overall stars of the exhibition.

Headteacher Stephen Colligan said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase the work of our pupils at North Ayrshire’s flagship arts and culture location.

“The Harbour Arts Centre is an excellent venue and I am sure all visitors will be impressed at the quality of the artwork on display. The work reflects not only the depth of talent we have in Saint Matthew’s Academy but also the commitment and hard work of our outstanding Art Department.”

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People said: “Congratulations to the talented pupils who have been featured in this exciting art exhibition.

“It is amazing to see such artistic prowess and potential being demonstrated so early by pupils in their academic journey. I have no doubt that many of the young artists will be back in HAC in the very near future if their current works are anything to go by.

“If you’re heading over to Irvine Harbourside over the weekend, please drop-in to see the work for yourself and show your support!”

Viewing are available today, tomorrow afternoon and on Friday, June 20, please call the venue before visiting on 01294 274059.

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