Local children discover Gateshead Riverside Park's sculptures

As part of the Riverside Routes x Tyne Derwent Way project, Gateshead Council Arts Development team commissioned Jessica to work with young artists in Year 2 at St Joseph's Primary School. While exploring the park, they focused on three sculptures: the James Hill Monument by Peter Coates, Rise and Fall by Lulu Quinn, and Cone by Andy Goldsworth.

Jessica's first session introduced her practice as an artist, asked children to think about what might be in Gateshead Riverside Park, and asked them what they thought a public sculpture might be. Only a few children had been in the space before, walking or riding their bike. Most guessed the park would be something like Saltwell Park, with sports facilities and play equipment. Many of the children imagined gigantic sculptures as big as skyscrapers.

Discovering Gateshead Riverside Park

The following week, they completed a two-hour walk. The children were completely engaged—enthusiastic, observant, and endlessly curious. They showed a keen interest in the scale, materials, and installation of sculptures, as well as how these artworks are cared for over time. The children noticed small objects embedded in the wall behind Rise and Fall. They also connected Cone to the idea of butterfly cocoons. Their observations sparked thoughtful discussions.

In the next two sessions, Jessica helped the children to explore symmetry, balance, pattern, repetition, and the contrast between indoor and outdoor art, using a range of traditional art materials like pencils and clay, as well as everyday materials like leaves and flowers. 

One pupil, who lives near Dunston Staiths, proudly shared their local knowledge, helping the class connect their learning to the wider Tyne Derwent Way and imagine what is further upstream. They talked about how they would like to walk there with their families.

Seeing the world through an artist's eyes

The experience not only deepened their understanding of place and art; it also nurtured their creative health, giving them space to express themselves, think critically, and see the world through an artist's eyes.

The children are working towards creating a pop-up exhibition in their school and then again at the Schools Sharing event at St Mary's in early 2026.

This project is funded by UK Government and the North East Combined Authority.