Kew Gardens

How inspiring it was for the Years 6 and 8 CMP pupils to see two such contrasting art exhibitions in the wonderful surroundings of Kew. Marianne North, a pioneering Victorian artist, travelled the world to paint plants in their native habitats, and over 800 of her wonderful oil paintings form the longest running art exhibition of a female artist. The children enjoyed learning more about this amazing artist and showing what they had learnt at school in preparation for the trip. In stark contrast, the striking glass sculptures of the contemporary American artist, Dale Chihuly, drew gasps of wonder from the pupils, as they caught sight of his stunning and colourful work amongst the plants in the gardens and glasshouses. The children studied the plants and sculptures, producing close-up observational sketches from which they will develop their art work this term. A fantastic experience indeed, which will motivate the children to enjoy refining their own skills and challenge them to produce their very best.