Every year the Art department at Halewood College invite an artist or artists into the school to work with students who have chosen to do art as a GCSE subject. It's a fantastic opportunity for the pupils as it gives them the chance to try new techniques, learn about careers in art, be inspired and see an artist at work. In July 2009 I was thrilled to be chosen to work with a year 9 class at the college with my sister Stephanie Sharp.

 

During Enterprise Week we did a project inspired by the natural world. On Monday I showed the students my portfolio and talked about my career and studies in art and textiles. The students experimented with mark making by creating textured backgrounds and black and white drawings on paper.    

 

On Tuesday we went to the World Museum in Liverpool. The students drew natural objects, creatures and animals on their textured backgrounds. We visited the Aquarium, Bug House and Zoology and Clore Natural History sections for inspiration. 

 

On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday I did screen printing, fabric dying, hand embroidery and machine embroidery workshops with the students. Using a combination of these techniques and inspired by their museum drawings, the class produced beautiful and very colourful textiles pieces which are on display in the art department at Halewood College.