BUDEHAVEN Community School has launched a new gallery space for pupils to exhibit their works alongside local artists.

‘The Bistro Art Gallery Space’ is a new venture for the school and in collaboration with BAAM they have been able to offer this new exhibiting space where works of art, created by pupils and local artists, will be one sale — it is hoped it will give pupils a real working experience of life as a practicing artist.

The opening exhibition, focusing on the theme of ‘identity’, celebrated the photography skills of the Year 12 and 13 students, alongside works by local photographers Chris Durant and Emi Thornburn.

It was said to be a truly amazing evening with a buzzing atmosphere and a real feeling of appreciation and celebration of the arts.

The evening was also a great chance to showcase the collaboration of the creative departments, with pupils from drama and music providing entertainment and performances.

Year 8 pupil Harry Goodearl produced a fitting background ambience for the event with an excellent solo guitar performance, with a lovely voice to accompany — it was very welcomed and enjoyed by all.

Pupils from Year 9 drama class, Luka Talajic-Sims, Isaac Guth­rie, Holly Bakewell, Jemima O’Brien and Natasha Poole, amazed visitors by bringing the painting ‘Room In New York’, by Edward Hopper, to life with their discreet performances throughout the evening.

In total there were 11 pieces of the pupil’s own photography work displayed, which really underlined the incredible talent of the students at Budehaven Community School.

Teacher Rachel Miller said: “It’s these moments when we see pupils’ efforts and ambitions realised that makes us so very proud to be a part of Budehaven Community School.”

The Bistro Art Gallery Space is now open for business and welcomes everyone to view this term’s photography show on ‘identity’. The show will run until October half term. The price list will be available at Stratton Road reception.