Many congratulations to talented artist, Olivia O’Dell (Year 10), who won 3^rd place (11-14 age category) in the Fabric of Bedford 2020 Art Competition.

Organised by the Harpur Trust in collaboration with The Higgins Bedford, The competition was open to all schools across the borough. With the deadline for submission just days after lockdown, many schools went the extra mile to get their work in, but the restrictions over the summer meant the exhibition at The Higgins Bedford had to be cancelled. However, for the first time ever, on Thursday 8^th October the celebratory event was streamed live to the local community.

Olivia reflected: “My applique, inspired by Henri Matisse, focused on leaves – inspired by the embankment and parks in Bedford. I have used layers of fabrics to add pattern and I also used different machine stitch to add texture and for effect. The contrast of the bright pink against the dull brown add a pop of colour to attract the eye. I used a darker green on the leaves to bring out the simple patterns of leaves and to emphasise their beauty.” 

View a diverse range of the artwork in the online gallery here.