Day One: Eden Project and Zip Line Thrills
The trip began at the Eden Project, where students explored the biodomes and drew inspiration from the rich variety of plant life, architectural structures and sculptures. Throughout the day they produced observational sketches and took source photography to support their coursework.
Before heading to their YHA accommodation in Penzance, the group took on England’s fastest zip line, reaching speeds of up to 60mph across the Eden Project site. In the evening, students channelled the day’s experiences into new artwork.
Day Two: The Artistic Heritage of St Ives
The second day was spent exploring the vibrant artistic heritage of St Ives. At the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, students took part in a practical workshop and explored Hepworth’s home, studio and sculpture gardens. Her bronze and marble sculptures inspired both observational drawings and creative responses.
A visit to Tate St Ives followed, where students discovered the work of artists inspired by Cornwall’s remarkable quality of light and its influential artistic community. The galleries offered fascinating insight into how artists have responded to the region’s landscape, colour and atmosphere.
The day ended with breath-taking views of St Michael’s Mount at sunset, a fitting finale to a day spent exploring both the north and south coasts of Cornwall.
Day Three: Kurt Jackson, Priest’s Cove and Contemporary Art
On the final day, students visited the Jackson Foundation to see The Cape, an exhibition of Kurt Jackson’s paintings, prints and sculptures inspired by the area around Cape Cornwall. A practical workshop gave them a deeper understanding of Jackson’s layered creative approach.
Out on the windswept coast, the sun shone over Priest’s Cove, a location that features in many of Jackson’s works. The scenery was made all the more memorable by the appearance of a curious seal at the water’s edge.
The group’s final gallery visit was to The Exchange in Penzance, where they experienced Zed Love, a contemporary immersive installation combining photographic processes, including photograms and cyanotypes, with sound art. Students engaged thoughtfully with the work, responding with maturity, curiosity and insightful discussion.
A Trip to Remember
The trip gave students a wealth of first-hand inspiration, from sketchbook studies to photography and practical workshops, all of which will feed into their ongoing GCSE work. We are immensely proud of how they represented Leweston, and we thank everyone who helped make the trip such a success.