During their time at the Polygon the pupils learn a variety of skills and techniques in Art. We use correct vocabulary to increase the boys’ knowledge of what they are making, and enable them to discuss their work.
Drawing, painting, printing, marbling, mosaics and 2D/3D clay work are taught throughout the year groups - and revisited through topic work to increase their skills levels.
The topics and projects change each term and as they move up through the school they will be introduced to new media, research, planning, and evaluation. This helps to prepare for GCSE work, and this year we are starting Arts Awards which means all boys will have the chance to gain a certificate at ‘Discover’ level whilst at The Polygon School.
In Key Stage 4 some pupils are entered for a GCSE exam in Art and the studies for this allow for more personal choice in the topic and the media used, following discussion with the teacher to decide on strengths and skills. Other Key Stage 4 pupils are working on their Arts Awards certificate levels.
Outdoor work, trips, Gallery visits and workshops are arranged to enhance learning and creativity, when possible bringing in outside artists to work with the pupils. Last year some of our boys participated in a Street Art event, writing and performing rap lyrics with musicians and spray painting onto cellophane with artists in the Guildhall Square.
Work is celebrated and displayed around the class and wider school, and sent to exhibition outside of school if possible. This year we have taken part in the ‘Small Faces’ exhibition at Solent Showcase where every pupil had the opportunity to have their portrait work hung alongside other schools and artists’ portraits. We also had a group of boys working on an animation project for the British Art Show 8 with an artist called Mikhail Karakis. Our film is called ‘Don’t Press That Button’ and was exhibited in City Gallery, as well as being part of the touring exhibition around the UK. The boys involved in this project have achieved their ‘Discover’ level Arts Award certificates.