Old cells at Otley Courthouse get new occupants in students’ scary sculptures (From Wharfedale Observer)
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Old cells at Otley Courthouse get new occupants in students’ scary sculptures
1:00pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News
Sixth form art students join teacher Shane Green, third from left, and sculpted prisoners in one of the cells
Visitors to Otley Courthouse should brace themselves for a spine-tingling surprise.
Because the building’s old cells, empty for years since the venue became a community and arts centre, have some scary-looking new occupants.
The sculpted ‘prisoners’ are the work of Prince Henry’s Grammar School pupils Rebecca Launder and Rauhaan Inamdar.
They are part of a striking exhibition of paintings, sculptures and crafts by sixth form students at the venue until Friday, April 5.
Based around the theme of Insights and Reflections, the works include portraits of angst-ridden individuals, models of the human torso and multi-medium pieces that comment on everything from the justice system to the pressure to conform.
Prince Henry’s head of art Shane Green said: “There’s a lot of dark stuff and social commentary going on this year.
“The students have done very well and it’s good to see the sculptures taking more prominence this time.”
Robert Cross, 17, used a photograph as the basis for his bold line drawing of a boat.
He said: “I took the photo of the ship on holiday and I’ve done a bit of art history, so it’s similar to other things I’ve seen.
“The lines and angles also tie in to architecture, which is what I’m hoping to study at university.”
Lorain Behrens, of volunteer group In-House Arts which curates exhibitions at the venue, said: “It’s wonderful seeing a new generation of artists and crafters being inspired to present their work in this wonderful venue.”
