As a reward for their excellent attitude, behavior and effort in Art lessons throughout the year, 28 students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have visited the BALTIC Contemporary Centre for Art to take part in a creative workshop.

Students enjoyed a creative textile workshop with the acclaimed artist Helen Pailing, in which they learned a wide range of techniques to create artistic pieces with textures and shapes inspired by corals found under the sea. Helen, who is currently a PhD Researcher at the National Glass Centre and Project Director for VARC (Visual Arts in Rural Communities), has been a freelance artist at the BALTIC for almost five years.

The group used materials such as hessian, wool and pipe cleaners combined with more unusual items such as plastic straws and discarded camera film. By taking part in this workshop students were able to experience the world of textiles in a new format and develop new creative skills that they can continue at home using readily-available household materials.

After the workshop students were able to explore the gallery and view the stunning artwork of Nigerian artist, Ifeoma U. Anyaeji, who makes distinctive sculptures and installations from discarded bottles and non-biodegradable plastic bags.

Students were inspired by her use of non-conventional materials to create intricately-woven structures using techniques of basketry and fabric weaving. The exhibition gave them lots of ideas for incorporating recycled waste products into their own creative work.