In May 2022, CAST presented a third Art Lab programme for schools, this time delving into the work and creative practice of studio-holder Nicola Bealing. Nicola’s colourful and intriguing paintings explore cultural memory and myth and are inspired by her travels, as well as storybooks and folklore she encountered as a child.
Schools were offered a full ‘Art Day’ at CAST, an increase from the previous half-day workshops, to allow children the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Nicola’s creative process from start to finish. The day began with a studio visit, curated display and audio-visual presentation, throughout which the children were encouraged to gather and draw in their sketchbooks. In the afternoon these recordings were then used to create vibrant paintings inspired by Nicola’s collections, and the resulting eclectic mixture of artworks were shared and reflected on as a group.
The workshop had strong ties to the national art curriculum, as well as to other subjects such as geography, literature, history and the natural sciences, and was adjusted to suit both KS1 and KS2 learning.