Welcome to the "Spirited Art" gallery, a unique collaboration where all seven Orchard Community Trust schools have come together to celebrate faith and spirituality through art. This exhibition, inspired by the themes "God's Creatures" and "Sacred Spaces", showcases a diverse array of interpretations, each school bringing its own perspective and creativity to the virtual gallery. You will experience a rich variety of artworks, crafted using a wide array of media, that reflect the pupils' imaginative and heartfelt responses to these interesting themes.
 

 

At Forest Park, we decided that the themes of this project could be used to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect endangered habitats.

The project was divided into two main themes: animals and habitats. Key Stage 1 (KS1) students focused on animals, while Key Stage 2 (KS2) students explored various habitats. The interpretation of "sacred" was broadened to include endangered parts of our world, emphasising their global significance and the urgent need for conservation.

Each class was assigned a specific area of interest to explore, representing diverse and ecologically significant regions around the globe. These areas included:

- Glen Rossa in Scotland      

- Coed Y Brenin in Wales

- The Amazon in Brazil

- The Congo Basin in Africa

- The Coral Triangle in the Pacific

- The Great Barrier Reef in Australia

- The Beaufort Sea in Canada

- The Bering Sea in Russia

Using the digital art medium and the 'Freeform' app, students began designing their habitats for a virtual gallery.

Click to view the virtual gallery

The goal was to create a "home" for the animals that KS1 pupils would later create. This collaborative approach allowed students to combine their artistic skills with their knowledge of ecology and conservation.

The youngest participants, from nursery and reception, played a crucial role in the project by focusing on the importance of biodiversity and insects. They learned that all living things, from the smallest insects to the largest mammals, are interconnected and essential for the health of our planet. These young students designed insects to border the artwork, making a powerful statement about the importance of food chains and the role of providers in ecosystems.

The combined artwork was designed to be viewed in stages, each representing a different aspect of the natural world and its significance:

1. Habitats and Animals: The first stage showcased the habitats created by KS2 students, providing a backdrop for the animals designed by KS1 pupils.

2. Animals Moving In: The second stage depicted the animals moving into their new homes, highlighting the interdependence between species and their environments.

3. Global Significance: The final stage encourages viewers to consider the global significance of these sacred (endangered) places and the role they play in maintaining the health of our planet.

The Spirited Art Project became more than just an art project; it was an educational journey that brought pupils together to celebrate the beauty and importance of the natural world. By exploring themes of God's creatures and sacred spaces, students gained a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and the need to protect endangered habitats. The project not only showcased their artistic talents but also instilled a sense of responsibility towards the environment, making it a truly spirited and meaningful endeavour.