Every day last week each of the timetabled art classes headed for the school hall to work together with as many as 90 students filling the space. They entered a darkened space and sat on chairs placed around four stunning theatre sets. Each set was designed and put together by the art teachers to reflect the themes of these classic children’s stories-Harry potter, The Secret Garden, Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland.
Following a brief introduction about the Big Draw event the stage door opened to reveal four live ‘characters’ who then positioned themselves to be a model in each of the sets. The models (from all year groups) had volunteered to dress up as a character of their choice and sit in costume whilst the classes drew them. Over 80 students throughout the week sat as models and took their role very seriously, despite being told they could move if they need to.
To capture a portrait or sketch the objects on the set provided participants with a unique opportunity. They worked using black biros to drawing to fill one page of a collaborative book. The front covers of which had
been beautifully illustrated by GCSE and 6th Form students. The atmosphere was that of pure concentration maintained with the use of music carefully chosen from film scores.he theatre lighting created drama and provided a challenge for sixth form photography classes. Many teachers also took the time to come in and enjoy the drawing experience including Mr Locke.
The legacy of the Leventhorpe Big Draw week is 90 incredible Big Draw books, full of mixed age and ability drawings. The work is fresh, delicate, original and funny. The week- long event was a huge success for all those who took part.
