Artists forge Europe links

Dec 12 2008 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

Artists forge Europe links

PAINTING primary school pupils in Helsby were one of just 11 schools from 600 all over Europe shortlisted for an arts award this week.

Helsby Hillside Primary School submitted their artwork, the pupils’ impressions of iconic paintings by European artists as part of the EU’s Year Of Intercultural Dialogue.

Rob Seabrook, headteacher, said: “I am delighted that we were shortlisted. We got through to the final of the competition with art inspired by painters from around Europe.

“Each class contributed by taking two countries and made paintings in the style of a famous painter from each country. We then put the paintings together in a collage to look like the EU flag.”

Nine-year-old Rebecca Clement was joined by teacher Ruth Taylor in attending a final awards ceremony and a special party in Westminster for the schools that were short listed.

Ruth said: “Sadly we didn’t win out right but it was absolutely brilliant.”