Mrs Lugsden (Head of Art and Textiles)

The Ceramics Club have been working on a project in support of Refugee Week for St. Paul’s Church. Students developed sculptural clay hands, thinking carefully about the form of the hand and what that represents. Issues of shared humanity and solidarity were considered as work was developed, with the work of Neshat being used as a starting point.

The final pieces are now on display at St. Paul’s Church, and we are really thrilled with the results; feedback so far has been wonderful. Well done to all involved!

Isabelle Harnan (Year 7) reflected: “This piece of work was very enjoyable to make, as not only we thought about our designs, we contemplated what life is like for others who are going through this. Before we started doing this project, I didn’t fully understand the impact that body language has and how much expression and emotion can be conveyed from a simple gesture. I also thought about the fact I didn’t want my work to be completely perfect as in real life, things are often far from that. Whilst doing this, I felt I put myself in others shoes and imagined how they must feel as this happens and they lose everything. This has really helped me to have a better understanding of the situation and the importance or raising awareness.”

Aleena Azam (Year 7) said: “I chose to do my hand about tranquillity as I feel it’s important especially for refugees to remember to be calm. Refugee Week is all about living safely while contributing to society. I chose my hand to be an okay sign as I feel refugees should remember it’s okay to be scared but to be able to talk about it to someone and have the right help!”

Narayani Joshi (Year 7) added: “My hand represents the peace for refugees all around the world seeking peace and the ability to live freely and out of danger. The peace shows their lives becoming easier to live with no worries! After a long time of fighting, hope is found.”