Year 10 and Lower Sixth Art artists spent an inspiring day together exploring the stunning grounds of Kew Gardens, immersing themselves in the Henry Moore: Monumental Nature exhibition. Discovering Moore’s large-scale sculptures, set against the landscape, allowed pupils to explore form, scale, and organic structure. At the Shirley Sherwood Gallery, they gained further insight by studying his delicate drawings and smaller sculptures up close.
Beyond the art exhibition, the trip offered a rich mix of sensory and architectural inspiration. Pupils climbed high above the canopy on the Treetop Walkway, took in views of the landmark Great Pagoda, and experienced the multisensory installation of The Hive. They also explored the climate environments of the Princess of Wales Conservatory, the restored Temperate House, and the thoughtful displays in the Carbon Garden.
Throughout the visit, pupils were encouraged to be curious and to look at the environment in alternative ways: noticing details, exploring multiple viewpoints and making creative connections. Armed with their photography, sketches, and observational notes, they returned with a wealth of material to further develop their GCSE and A Level work back in the classroom. A truly wonderful experience!
'My favourite part of the trip was viewing Henry Moore's mixed media sketches and plans in the gallery. These, alongside the actual sculptures, demonstrated his process, which was intriguing to see.' - Milly S-J, L6T
'I enjoyed going to Kew to observe and learn about the sculptures of Henry Moore. I learned how he first sketched his design to then physically make them. I didn’t just enjoy the sculpture but the garden itself, with the Princess of Wales Conservatory being my favourite place.' - Tilly K, L6T