Shapwick School

The Shapwick School Art Day is a very unusual event which has taken place for the last eleven years. The event, which will take place on Wednesday 7th July, is probably unique, and is eagerly awaited by students and teachers alike.

The event involves a number of professional artists and designers in a day of enjoyment and creativity for all concerned. Poets, writers, actors and musicians are also involved. Many schools have an artist in residence for a week or so, but few can offer a day with as many as twelve on site, together, with interesting vehicles and engines to look at, on the field.

Artists and makers are invited to set up studio for a day on the school’s beautiful campus, and to work as if at home in their own studio. While they work, they are visited by small groups of students with members of staff and villagers, who watch them work and hopefully ask questions. Some artists have invited their guests to take part in some activity but this is not the main point of the day. It is to see artists at work.

In the evening the school holds a concert, with professional performers taking part. This year’s programme is looking very exciting.

Artists who will be showing their skills this year include Tony Pizzey, Sculpture, Mike Dearden, Wildlife Photographer; former pupil and actor Adam Baylis and Sam Hodgeson who will demonstrate his drawing skills.

There will also be a fascinating display of old motor vehicles and static engines.

The evening concert features Jez Star, the Dreaded Mentalist, The acid folk band Fierce August, The Reign, local singing star, Holly and support from the school. Pupils and students from the school will be joined by parents and villagers.