Last week our students and their parents were invited into a vibrant hub of creativity, as we had the pleasure of hosting a workshop led by the renowned mixed-media artist, Nikki Parmenter, delving into the world of textile art and fabric bonding.

Nikki, with her enthusiasm and expert guidance, introduced participants to the intricate process of fabric bonding. This wasn’t your typical craft session; it was an exploration of texture, colour, and form, pushing the boundaries of traditional art. Armed with a diverse array of tools – from the sewing machines to the controlled heat of soldering irons, and the meticulous application of glue guns – everyone loved learning how to fuse and manipulate fabrics to create some amazing artwork.

The focus of the evening was the creation of ‘fantastic flowers,’ but these were no ordinary blooms.Students and parents discovered the magic of transforming simple fabrics into intricate, three-dimensional artworks. Parents and students worked side by side, exchanging ideas and encouraging each other’s artistic endeavors.

The resulting display was an array of amazingly designed ‘fantastic flowers’ and many other colourful pieces of art. Each ‘fantastic flower’ was unique – a vibrant expression of their artistic spirit – showcasing the versatility of fabric as a medium. Beyond the flowers, participants also had the opportunity to experiment with other techniques and materials, resulting in a collection of equally stunning and diverse artworks, examples of which you can see below.

This workshop was more than just a creative exercise; it was an opportunity for our school community to connect, learn, and be inspired. Nikki Parmenter’s passion for her craft ignited a spark of creativity in everyone who attended. The event not only showcased the beauty of mixed media art but also highlighted the importance of fostering artistic exploration and discovery within our school. It was a truly memorable evening.