Brockenhurst College’s annual Art Exhibition was a huge success with a record number of visitors. As well as the usual high quality selection of Art, Ceramics and Textiles final year projects, this year’s show was extended to include Performing Arts and Photography displays.

The exhibition showcased talent from current first and second year students, alongside work from those taking the Continuing Education and Adult Education courses from across the New Forest. To celebrate the high standard of work winners were chosen in categories covering A level and Vocational courses and prizes were given in a special presentation evening.

Performing Arts students presented their most ambitious production to date with an evening of Brazilian music and dance - learnt just a few days before.

Students were taught by a Brazilian dance choreographer and singing coach over two days of workshops. The performance itself was outstanding with an amazing display of dancing to music provided by the College choir, band and Samba band.

George Popseco, Head of Art and Design, said, ‘’This exhibition celebrates the end of year work, featuring first and second year students who have successfully completed a wide range of Art and Design courses. The art on display is excellent and shows the high standard of work produced in Fine Art, Textiles, Photography, Ceramics, 3D and Graphics.’’

The ‘Best of Show’ winners were selected by attendants voting for their favourite piece with stickers. A presentation ceremony then took place for the most popular art pieces with the College Principal, Di Roberts, and Art Lecturers George Popseco and Colin Jones.Winners, Beverly Spanswick and Jessica Smith were presented with certificates and cash prizes donated by Barclays Bank.

Mature student Beverly Spanswick said, “I’m really pleased to have won – It’s nice to know someone likes my art! It was a real challenge to get the curves using the clay, it took quite a few hours of work and a lot of patience! I am now starting work as a freelance artist and hope to set up my own studio in the future.”

Jessica Smith won for her Graphic book on ‘Identity’, she enthused, “I was really surprised to win, but my parents are very pleased as my sister was the subject for my piece, which was a photographic collage about identity. I now looking forward to starting my foundation year at Bournemouth Arts Institute.”