Inspiring Art and Writing in St Ives

Our lucky Year 6 pupils travelled to St Ives to immerse themselves in inspirational art and scenery for a combined literacy and art trip.

The pupils split into three groups, which rotated across three locations; Porthmeor Beach, the Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum.

Porthmeor Beach is famous for inspiring artists and was the perfect setting for some sand sculptures. Pupils were also encouraged to capture sights, sounds and feelings to inspire their writing on their return to school.

The Tate St Ives is home to collections from Cornwall and around the world. Featured artists include Alfred Wallis, Marlow Moss and Barbara Hepworth.

Focussing more on the sculptures of Barbara Hepworth, our pupils considered how the artist used a wide array of inspiration to move between landscape, figure drawing and still life, combining different techniques, media and styles. Barbara Hepworth was the first sculptor to use holes in her work, promoting the idea that holes can be points of connection. Certainly, our students enjoyed exploring these connections for themselves.

The tour of the Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, the former home and studios of Barbara Hepworth, offers a fabulous insight into the artist’s life and sculptures. Our children were delighted to walk in the gardens that inspired much of her work.

It was a fabulous day and a fantastic opportunity for hands-on learning and experiences. Our children were a credit to the school and staff received many compliments on their behaviour during their visit.

Thanks to all of the staff who helped on the day, with special thanks to Ms Cadwallader and Miss Ashdown.