Pupils at King Ina Academy became artists for the day last month, when international artist Jan Niedojadlo visited and helped them to build their own ‘pod’ sculptures.
Jan’s interactive ‘podule’ exhibition had been on display at ACEArts in Somerton earlier this year and received positive comments from visitors of all ages, who were delighted at being encouraged to touch and climb into the artwork. Inspired by the success of Jan’s show, ACEArts managed to secure funding from the Mid-Somerset branch of The Arts Society (formerly The National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts) for him to visit two schools in the area and work with the pupils to build their own ‘pods’, which will remain at the schools for them to use and enjoy. The Society has been involved with a number of schools in recent years, with the projects it funds encompassing a wide range of activities to benefit individuals or groups of children.
Nina Gronw-Lewis, Curator of ACE-ARTS, commented, “Schools and families were amongst the visitors to Jan’s exhibition, and we were really glad that we were able to support King Ina Academy’s art activities in this way. We hope that Jan’s visit will inspire the next generation of art lovers!”
Barbara French from the Mid-Somerset branch of The Arts Society said, “We were delighted to support the Somerton school initiative. The belief that the arts have the potential to enrich lives is at the heart of everything we do.”
ACE-ARTS moved into the Old Town Hall permanently in September 2016 and will use it as a gallery and workshop venue, with exhibitions sponsored by The Stepping Stone Group. For more information telephone ACEARTS on 01458 273008, email [email protected] or visit their Facebook page.