Art show success for Higher Education students at Selby Abbey

On Monday 10th June, Selby College’s Higher Education Art & Design students held a private viewing in conjunction with their Selby 950 exhibition in Selby Abbey.

Selby College’s Principal & Chief Executive Phil Sayles welcomed students, parents, governors and staff to the viewing, which was also attended by the Mayor of Selby, Councillor Malik Rofidi, the Chairman of Selby District Council, Councillor Donald Mackay, the Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Pat Smith and their consorts.

The group of Higher National Diploma in Art & Design (Arts Practice) students were briefed to reflect on the life of Selby Abbey in response to the 950th anniversary of the Abbey’s foundation and the role it has played in the town’s history to bring the past into the present life of the Abbey.

The resulting exhibition takes inspiration from archive material to produce a wide range of work and responses including Fine Art, Graphic Communications and Photography, such as a 3D rendering of the exterior of the Abbey, a light installation, accomplished hand-printed visuals, photography and graphics.

Principal Phil Sayles said: “I would like to thank Selby Abbey for the use of the building and the opportunity to participate in the Anniversary. There are a large amount of celebrations going on throughout the year and we as a College are very proud that our students have contributed to this with the fantastic artwork they have produced.”

He added: "I would also like to thank the passionate and talented staff who have taught our students, as well as their parents and families. Not forgetting the students themselves for being wonderful and creative and hardworking – and for producing this amazing display of work.”

Speaking of the support from the Higher Education Art & Design department, Year 2 HND Fine Art student Emma Homes said: "Nothing is too much to ask, my tutor really goes above and beyond for her students.”

Emma produced a 3D model of two sections of the Abbey’s complex architecture and has meticulously cut pieces. They are displayed with light to further enhance the detail and beauty hidden within as they cast shadows on the walls of the building.

The ‘Selby 950 Exhibition’ in Selby Abbey will be open to the general public until Thursday 13th June, from 10am-4pm each day. Entry is free.