The Dee estuary has been unlocking its rich history of tales and folklore during this Autumn.
Pupils from Ysgol Bryn Garth, Ysgol Bro Carmel and Ysgol Bryn Pennant have been working alongside professional artist Jan Gardner to design and create murals representing the story of smugglers and pirates who sailed along the Dee.
Jan is a national award winning artist for her work including the Winsor and Newton Purchase prize, St. Cuthbert’s Mill, Maimeri and Royal Talens, and Atelier Interactive from The Artist Magazine, to which she has contributed articles.
Jan studied at Winchester School of Art gaining a B.A. Honours in Printed Textiles and A.T.D post-graduate studies. She has worked as `Artist in Residence` in a wide range of education, gallery and health establishments, and works full-time as an artist. She exhibits her work across the U.K. including London, the North West, Scotland, Ireland and Wales and worldwide including France, Italy, U.S.A., Switzerland, New Zealand and Australia. She has recently been researching her colour palette following an award from the Arts Council of Wales. Her work is held in corporate, public and private collections in the U.K. and worldwide.
Councillor Nigel Steele-Mortimer, Executive Member for Education at Flintshire County Council said:
“This was a wonderful opportunity for pupils and teachers to work alongside a professional artist in developing their creative skills, and highlights the effectiveness of schools working collaboratively.”
Funded by Flintshire County Council and the Arts Council of Wales, this project culminates with an exhibition at Clwyd Theatr Cymru from 23 November to 20 December, and will be officially opened by the Chair of Flintshire County Council, Councillor Hilary McGuill, on 24 November.
