Art at King Edward's School is one of the most popular and exciting subjects. The Art Department has earned a reputation developing students into highly accomplished artists, many of whom go on to Art College or to university in order to further their studies. The quality of the work produced is outstanding, along with examination results.

The Art and Photography Exhibition provided a showcase for the work of a host of talented up and coming young artists at the School. This year's theme was A River of Colour inspired by a recent visit to Barcelona where students saw work by Gaudi. In the spirit of the artist this year's Show was bursting with both colour and energy.

The art on display included a rich and diverse mix of paintings, prints, sculpture, mixed media and photography from the traditional to the more abstract.

This year King Edward's were delighted to welcome Monahans, who sponsored the event, to award prizes in the following categories:-

· Best Painting – Jack Taylor

· Best Painter – Ted Cheverton

· Best Printmaker – Katherine Pickering

· Best Mixed Media – Kirsty Tavendale

- Best Darkroom Practice - Ted Cheverton

- Most Digitally Creative - Danny Bellamy

· Best Photographer – Alice Worsdall

· Most Promising Photographer  – Jack Crocker

· Best Sketchbook/Portfolio – Yasmine Pile

· Best Year 11 – Ellie Corp

· Best Year 10 - Rosie Combe

Martin Longmore, partner at Monahans said; “Monahans were delighted to be able to support this exciting event and thereby helping to highlight the talented young artists at King Edward's.”

Every year a number of pupils from King Edward's go on to develop their talents at some of the premier art schools in the country including Chelsea School of Art and The Courtauld. The Show is the ideal opportunity for visitors to see artwork by new and emerging talent.

The Art Department is a purpose built suite of art studios containing separate studios for design and photography.

Up to date IT technology
The art department is resourced with computers, scanners, colour printers, LCD projectors, specific art software and internet access.

Extensive art library
The art department also holds an extensive art library for inspiration and reference.

Media art resources
There is also TV/Video equipment in all art rooms for screening relevant video material to all age groups.

TAG Gallery for art exhibitions
A new Art Gallery is due to be added to the existing Art, Design and Technology Centre to create a flexible exhibitions space for displays of art by existing students and external artists and a programme of art activities each term.

All pupils study art for their first three years in School, when the foundations of visual literacy and awareness and technical competence are laid. Thereafter, pupils may opt to study the subject for GCSE and then go on to AS and A2 in sixth form.

Pupils are introduced to colour, form, texture, pattern and different materials and processes to communicate what they see, feel and think. They explore ideas and meanings in the work of artists, craftspeople and designers. Analysing and responding to the work of artists from a range of times and cultures informs the development of their own work. They learn about the diverse roles and functions of art, craft and design in contemporary life, and in different times and cultures.

Art develops pupil's visual literacy, it allows them to express themselves, respond visually and critically to their environment. Pupils develop knowledge and understanding of Art concepts whilst gaining skills and confidence in using a range of media.

Analysing and responding to the work of artists from a range of time and cultures informs the development of their own work. Activities include printmaking, painting, 3D and textiles developed from exploring, recording and analysing visual information. Drawing skills supports project work. Project themes include portraits, masks, landscapes, still life, architecture, the figure, composition and perspective.