From Classroom to Gallery: LST Showcases Extraordinary Art

Staff and students came together at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art on Wednesday 24th September to celebrate their creativity through Extraordinary Us.

Year 4 and Year 5 students have been working with professional artists both onsite and at the Baltic to explore new skills, express their ideas and create artworks.

The showcase began with a welcome from Lisa Macauley, Headteacher of Atkinson Road Primary Academy, who spoke about the project’s impact on pupils and their creative journey. Sally Newton, CEO of Laidlaw Schools Trust, also congratulated the young artists and reflected on how the Extraordinary Us programme highlights the importance of creativity in education.

Then, the professional artists involved in the project then took to the stage to share insights into the process, highlighting the skills pupils had developed and the inspiration behind the final pieces.

Afterwards, pupils and staff took part in a carousel of activities after exploring the exhibition. The gallery was officially opened to the public afterwards, offering families the chance to view the diverse and imaginative artworks on display.

The event also featured a video capturing pupils’ experiences, providing a glimpse into the creative journey behind the finished pieces.

"The BALTIC is renowned for creativity, bold ideas and celebrating innovation, making it the perfect setting for this project. The pupils have been part of something truly special, collaborating with professional artists, exploring ambitious ideas and developing new skills."

- Sally Newton, CEO of Laidlaw Schools Trust

The Extraordinary Us project, funded by the Laidlaw Foundation, reflects the Trust’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop new skills and express themselves through the arts.

A special thanks to professional artists Debbie Bower, Adam Phillips, Mani Kambo and Megan Randall for helping with this project.