The Art of Experimentation

Our mission is to uncover and nurture every pupil’s unique strengths and talents, and in the Creative Arts, the possibilities are endless. From Fine Art and Ceramics to Textiles, Photography and 3D Design, we offer countless opportunities for girls to explore and develop their artistic potential. Whether she is seeking to master a technique or simply enjoys being creative as a way to unwind, there are a wide array of clubs and activities designed to inspire and engage her creativity.

Facilities

The Creative Arts are a vital and dynamic part of life at Downe House, providing every girl with the opportunity to explore her creativity and hone her artistic skills. Our faculty is designed to inspire and nurture talent, boasting four spacious Art studios, including a dedicated Pottery room and specialised Upper and Lower Sixth studios that encourage exploration across various artistic mediums.

The Textiles space is a vibrant and resourceful environment equipped with everything students need to engage deeply with this multifaceted discipline. Sixth Form students benefit from individual workstations in their dedicated studio, allowing for personalised projects and focused study.

In 3D Design, the possibilities for innovation and creativity are boundless. Students have access to 3D printers and laser cutters, alongside facilities for welding and working with a wide array of resistant materials. The department is equipped with the technology to support every stage of the design and making process, ensuring students have the resources they need to bring their ideas to life. 

The Photography department is equally well-appointed, featuring a teaching space, a photo shoot studio, a traditional darkroom, and a suite of computers for advanced digital manipulation and editing. These resources enable students to delve into both contemporary and traditional photographic techniques, developing a broad skill set. 

For History of Art, the dedicated teaching space provides an inspiring venue for critical analysis and an exploration of the cultural and historical contexts of Art. 

Altogether, these facilities foster an environment where students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and thrive, fully realising their creative potential. 

Creative Enrichment

Our Creative Arts faculty offers a rich array of opportunities beyond the curriculum, designed to inspire and engage students in developing their artistic talents.  

Evening and weekend clubs and activities are complemented by regular workshops led by staff and visiting professional artists. These sessions encompass a variety of disciplines, such as life drawing, screen and collagraph printing, mixed media, textiles, sculpture, and ceramics. 

Collaboration is at the heart of our ethos, and we take pride in working with other schools to facilitate joint creative projects, fostering a sense of community and shared inspiration.  

Students frequently showcase their work in exhibitions both within the school and in the wider community, allowing them to gain valuable experience and recognition. Additionally, trips to galleries and visits to practicing artists’ studios provide insight into the professional art world and broaden students’ creative horizons. 

One of the most exciting aspects of our Creative Arts provision is the opportunity to participate in annual trips, both in the UK and abroad, to destinations such as St Ives, Barcelona, and Amsterdam. These enriching experiences allow pupils to fully immerse themselves in the Arts through visits to renowned galleries and participation in artist-led workshops. These trips provide an invaluable chance to engage with diverse artistic cultures, broaden creative perspectives, and develop hands-on skills in inspiring settings. 

Leadership opportunities are available through our elected team of student ‘Creative Seniors,’ who represent and support the faculty. They take pride in announcing the ‘Creative of the Month’ award during their monthly whole-school assembly slot, celebrating outstanding achievements across all year groups. 

With its extensive and diverse extra-curricular programme, the Creative Arts faculty offers a vibrant and inclusive environment where every student can explore and excel in their artistic journey.

Exhibitions

At the close of each academic year, the Founder’s Exhibition celebrates the remarkable creativity of our students, showcasing GCSE and A Level work from Fine Art, Textiles, 3D Design, and Photography across two floors in the Murray Centre. The talents of younger students are highlighted in an exhibition on the top floor of the Art Department. This much-anticipated event welcomes families during Founder’s Weekend, while members of the public are invited to enjoy the display throughout the following week.