Art and Design students from Paignton Academy have been inspired by a local artist following a recent visit to talk about their technique and inspiration.
As part of their BTEC Art and Design research, the students were recently visited by local artist Becky Bettesworth.
Becky Bettesworth moved to Devon in 2001 and her work is influenced by this beautiful area of the world. Her designs are inspired by the classic railway posters of the 1930s.
Her vintage seaside posters are modern and fresh, showing a place at its best without the fuss and rush of the modern world.
Becky spoke with students on how to expand their thinking when it comes to creativity, offering insights into her inspiration, techniques and processes.
By the end of KS4, students studying BTEC Art and Design will be able to work within the constraints of scenarios and briefs linked to the real world and creative industries.
Year 11 student Finley said: "It was a great experience, and it will help me develop my project. I love Becky's use of colour and composition within her graphic outcomes."
Year 11 student Megan said: "Becky's talk was engaging and I particularly liked how her upbringing supported her creative journey and the meaning behind her beautiful artworks."
Paignton Academy encourage its students to identify their own artistic style and challenge them to be independent and make personal choices by pushing boundaries and taking creative risks.
Becky’s passion is an inspiration to us all, and the school says it can’t wait to see how this wonderful experience will begin to reflect on their students own work.
Year 11 student Lottie said: "It was inspiring because she told us about the depths and composition of her work."
Year 11 student Bethany said: "Her story was unique, and her work portrayed our local area, which appealed to me.”
Mrs Burnham, teacher of Art and Design at the Academy, said: "It is so important for students to engage with artists and be inspired. Meeting Becky Bettesworth gave students an opportunity to understand how she develops her artwork and ask questions.
“We live in a world where visual communication is so important and being able to discuss the artwork with the artist enabled students to understand the decision-making process in greater depth. The students are already applying these ideas to their own artwork back in the classroom.”
Thank you, Becky, for your insightful presentation and sharing your beautiful work with our students.
