We are proud to share the impact report for the Camden Schools Art Biennale, which took place last summer at the Lethaby Gallery.
A blossoming celebration of art in Camden
The Camden Schools Art Biennale has blossomed from many roots, each contributing to the vibrant celebration of art in Camden. At the heart of this initiative are our brilliant children and young people, along with all Camden schools, including special schools, nurseries, and sixth forms. These institutions eagerly embraced the opportunity to participate in this artistic celebration.
Inspired by Venice’s renowned Art Biennale, held every other year, and particularly by Sonia Boyce, the first black woman artist to represent the UK and winner of the Golden Lion Award in 2022, our Biennale has consistently championed diversity and opportunity for all.
The Camden Schools Music Festival, held biennially at the Royal Albert Hall, sparked the idea of creating a school arts festival to complement it. This initiative aims to strengthen the teaching of arts alongside music in our schools.
Camden Learning, a collective partnership between Camden Council and all our schools, has played a pivotal role in this endeavor. Our new curriculum enrichment strategy ensures that all children have the opportunity to express themselves visually and creatively. Camden Council and Camden Learning provided the initial support and investment necessary for the Biennale’s success.
Contributions from Camden’s creative community and dedication of art teachers
The richness of Camden’s creative and business communities, particularly Central Saint Martins, has been instrumental in bringing the Biennale to life. Their flair, skill, resources, and commitment have been invaluable. We are also grateful to the Kings Cross Central Partnership and the generosity of John Lyon’s Charity.
The dedication and expertise of our art teachers here in Camden, along with the exceptional leadership of former headteachers Gwen Lee and Kate Frood, have been crucial to the Biennale’s success. The artistic community in Camden, including the October Gallery, the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, Photographers Gallery, and individual artists, has shown remarkable generosity.
Celebrating the impact and highlighting future opportunities
This impact report celebrates the many branches and activities that have grown from these roots, highlighting the explosion of learning that has taken place and exploring how this can continue to flourish in the future.
Already, there is an immediate legacy. Camden Learning has established an Excellence Adviser for Art, working with all our schools. Many primary schools are now prioritising art in the curriculum, and the art subject network has become one of the most popular teaching groups. There is a palpable buzz in our schools, among students, teachers, and leaders.
Emphasising digital art and career pathways
The report also emphasises new opportunities for students to explore the digital art world, engage with the creative community and businesses, discover new career pathways in the creative arts, and enrich the artistic life of the borough.
One of the many activities around the Biennale was the creation of ‘art badges’ with urgent messages. One badge proclaimed, ‘Art is a deep thing’. We wholeheartedly agree.
The Camden Schools Biennale has not only celebrated art but has also laid the foundation for a thriving artistic future in Camden. This report is a testament to the incredible journey and the promising path ahead.
