Fifth Form Artists Find Inspiration in St Ives

Over half term, 42 talented and enthusiastic Fifth Form artists embarked on our much-anticipated annual trip to St Ives, Cornwall.

During the trip, the pupils immersed themselves in the local art scene, exploring both the historical and contemporary sides of Cornish creativity. Highlights included visits to the Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, where pupils gained a first hand insight into 20th-century abstract art and the legacy of one of Britain’s most celebrated sculptors.

In the evenings, the students worked late into the night, including some night painting in the harbour under moonlight, capturing the unique atmosphere of the town.

The pupils were very fortunate to spend a day working alongside a professional artists, Sophie Capron, Francesca Owen and Amy Albright, whose guidance helped them push their boundaries and experiment with new techniques.

A standout moment for many was the expressive landscape painting session at Cape Cornwall, where the group was blessed with glorious sunshine and sweeping coastal views. The dramatic scenery provided the perfect backdrop for bold, energetic mark-making and colour exploration.

On the final day, the pupils visited the iconic St Michael’s Mount, rounding off the trip with a blend of history, myth, and visual inspiration before returning to Worcester.

Throughout the week, pupils deepened their understanding of modern art movements, developed their observational and expressive skills, and showed remarkable dedication in completing their sketchbooks.

We can’t wait to see how this inspirational trip will shape their ideas and artwork over the coming months.