Thinking and making like an artist at Gibside

If you're visiting Gibside this half-term, look out for an installation of artwork by year 12 art and design students from Thorp Academy.

The 'Thinking and Making Like an Artist' project has been guided by artist Paul Merrick, and inspired by a visit to Gibside. It was commissioned by the Gateshead Council Arts Development Team as part of the Riverside Routes x Tyne Derwent Way creative partnership.

The work, which is on show on the raised walkway at Gibside, here is the result of around three months of practising what it means to work like an artist. Every student has produced an impressive body of work, beginning with sketchbooks on site, developing ideas back in the classroom, and often producing large-scale final pieces.

The original artworks are being exhibited this week at Vane Gallery in Gateshead.

This project has encouraged these young artists to step outside their comfort zones. Alongside their growing creative ambition, students spent time discussing and reflecting on what they were making and why, resulting in deeply personal artworks. Each piece shows a connection not only to Gibside, but also to wider issues, ideas and interests.

The National Trust has provided free acorn passes to the young artists and their families so they can see their work on display over half term.

Creative producer Elizabeth Kane said:

"As I was installing the work, lots of families stopped to chat about the impressive artwork, the amazing National Trust properties across the North East, and I had the opportunity to tell them about the work we've been doing along the Tyne Derwent Way.

"This is the second year Thorp Academy have worked with Gateshead Council Arts team on Riverside Routes x Tyne Derwent Way. It's great to see how it's beginning to be an embedded partnership and we look forward to seeing how things develop between the arts team, National Trust and academy in future."