THE artistic talents of students at a Middlesbrough school are being showcased in a unique exhibition on the other side of the globe.
Prince Bishop School is one of only two in the UK invited to submit works as part of the annual International Exchange Exhibition of Children’s Art in Narita City, Japan.
The partnership was established in 2002 when the Saltersgill school was invited to represent England by the Japan National Tourist Organisation.
Every year they join schools from around the world in submitting works on a different theme – the topic chosen for 2015 was ‘Play’.
The latest collection features works from Prince Bishop alongside pieces from 14 countries around the world including Uzbekistan, China, Croatia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Nepal, Vietnam, and Korea.
And there’s special recognition each year with Friendship Awards presented to individual students for the quality of their work – this year out of 434 international entries only 25 artworks received this special award, with Josh Causier the proud recipient of a Gold Award
Josh and his fellow artists were presented with their certificates and commemorative pens at a special assembly in school.
After exhibiting in the autumn at the Skytown Gallery in Narita City, the exhibition goes on tour of schools throughout Japan.
The Mayor of Narita City Kazunari Koizumi said: “This art exhibition is meant to foster the dreams and creativity of children and to deepen our understanding of cultures and lifestyles around the world, and to promote culture and art among our city residents by showing the artwork of children from overseas and from Narita City itself.
“The works that children overseas sent us aptly reflect the characteristics and lifestyles of their respective countries.
“Through their art you can experience a wide variety of festivals and gain a vivid global perspective.”
Prince Bishop Art teacher Stuart Collier said: “The International Exchange Exhibition is a special part of school life, and a unique opportunity for our students to take part in a truly international annual event.
“They’ve all produced fantastic pictures this year, and the special award for Josh is the icing on the cake.”
Jeff Watson, Chair of Governors at Prince Bishop, said: “All the students involved in this year’s exhibition can be truly proud of their achievements which are a credit to the school and the whole town.
“I’m also grateful to Stuart Collier and Vicky Parker in our art department for the passion and commitment they show to this inspiring initiative.”