What a spectacularly colourful and creative week we’ve had in Year 6! This week was no ordinary school week—it was Art Week, and what a week it was!
We took part in the National Gallery’s Take One Picture project, and this year’s chosen artwork was Canaletto’s “Regatta on the Grand Canal.” This magnificent Venetian masterpiece was the starting point for a whole host of exciting art, writing, and design activities that captured our imaginations as budding artists and storytellers.
Exploring the Canals of Creativity
Our journey began by delving into the world of Canaletto and the beauty of Venice. We explored perspective and vanishing points, discovering how artists use these clever techniques to draw the eye into a painting. Using our new knowledge, we created stunning sketches of Venetian architecture, focusing on gothic-style windows and the pastel-toned plasterwork seen on the elegant palazzos lining the Grand Canal.
Adding even more flair, we used watercolour paints to recreate the subtle hues of Venice’s buildings and even turned our hands to modelling mini gondolas —no oar left behind!
It’s All About Illusion!
But wait—there’s more! We also experimented with reverse perspective art, an optical illusion technique that makes pictures appear to move and draw viewers in. The results were absolutely mesmerising and had us all looking twice!
Dear Diary… Regatta Day in Venice!
As if that wasn’t enough excitement, we stepped into the shoes (or should we say sandals?) of a child in Canaletto’s painting. Through imaginative diary writing, we captured the sights, sounds, and feelings of being part of the bustling crowd on regatta day. You might have even spotted some Italian phrases sprinkled into our writing—“Forza! Forza!” (Let’s go!) and “Bellissimo!” (Beautiful!) brought Venice to life on the page!
Our Art Gallery – A Showcase of Talent!
On Friday afternoon, the school was transformed into a gallery of brilliance as we proudly opened our doors to share our Art Week creations. Parents, children, and staff were wowed not just by our Canaletto-inspired projects, but also by the highlights from our learning journey this year. On display were:
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Punch and Judy puppets (yes, that is the way to do it!)
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WWII Anderson shelter models
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Inuit-inspired artwork
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William Morris-style repeating patterns
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Inventive Victorian contraptions (the future starts here!)
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A heartfelt thank you to all parents who visited and supported our exhibition—your applause means the world to us.
A Finale Full of Fun and Colour!
To round off this unforgettable week, the whole school came together to sing our hearts out and celebrate a week of joy and togetherness. And then… we ran, we laughed, we got very colourful at the Colour Run! Paint powder flew, friendships grew, and smiles were everywhere. A truly bravissimo end to a brilliant week!
Thank you for your continued support and encouragement. Year 6 has shown us once again what creative, imaginative, and hardworking superstars they are.
Go, Year 6, Go! Forza!
Have a wonderful weekend!