Pathways KS3 pupils have been working towards their Arts Award, studying Street Art and learning about local graffiti artists, specifically Frank Styles. This week, the pupils were able to explore some of this artwork up close, on a mini–Street Art tour of our city. Pupils learned more about the meaning and history behind each piece, whilst also seeing the scale and detail of the work. They could see a variety of pieces, observing how the paint and buildings have aged over time, how textures impact the design and seeing the difference between illegal graffiti and commissioned Street Art, to show how the latter can help regenerate an area.

They were particularly impressed at how well spray paint could be used to create realistic imagery and enjoyed finding art that they could see and feel, so close to where they live and attend school. Some pupils even enjoyed reenacting some of the street art scenes! The students will now be able to use their experience and the photographs taken, to inform and inspire their own ‘Street Art Scene’, which will go towards the final completion of their Arts Award.