The Art of Communication

The work of acclaimed street artist Banksy and conceptual artist Barbara Kruger are inspiring creative children at Ramsgate Arts Primary.

Girls and boys have studied the way the pair use their style to convey messages and are devising ways to make their own important statements have a visual impact.

As part of their studies, pupils took part in the first in-school competition of this academic year to design images to convey issues they feel strongly about.

Art teacher Kelly-Ann Smith explained: “There was a very high standard of work from students relating to a whole range of themes including littering, looking after our planet and animal cruelty.  

“The two winners' work included an entry from Polly for Key Stage 1 who produced a fantastically illustrated drawing based on the theme of being kind and including everyone.

“Bea in Key Stage 2 produced a photography piece that conveys the message that we need to act to resolve global issues.”

Both pupils received art prizes, a certificate and house points.

Head of School Nick Budge was impressed at the diversity of entries for the competition. He said: “Using two prominent and focussed artists as a basis for their work certainly encouraged our children to produce a raft of thought-provoking images.

“Each term we focus on a particular artist to give our pupils of all ages the opportunity to experience the sheer diversity of work produced by the prominent and not so well-known artists of all styles and disciplines.

“The next termly competition has a festive theme that will no doubt provide colourful artwork to complement our festive displays around the school.”

Ramsgate Arts Primary School is part of the Viking Academy Trust in partnership with Chilton Primary School and Upton Junior School.

For more information contact head of School Nick Budge on 01843 582847.