An artist inspires at Shiplake College

Shiplake College Sixth Form art students were fortunate to spend a day last week with British Fine Artist, Ian Murphy to learn and be inspired by his style and techniques of creating detailed drawings and large scale artworks.

He started the day by talking to all pupils in a Whole School Assembly, showcasing one of his giant masterpieces for all to see.

Keli Thomas, Head of Art, said: "Ian brought a van full of his amazing large paintings and drawings which really inspired the students to see his work up close.

"They developed a variety of skills on materials in drawing, painting and creating backgrounds.

"The outcomes the students produced were exceptional and this will be of real benefit for their coursework."

Year 12 artists, Michael Aitken and Charlotte Garnett wrote an account of the day:

On Monday we had a workshop day with Ian Murphy. We found it spectacular as he introduced the personal side of his work and how his experiences influence his work. He taught us many of his different techniques showing us how to incorporate texture in our work.

At the start of the day he challenged all of us to complete five different pieces of art in his style of work. Everyone had an exceptional time as we all learnt something different and it opened up a new eye to a different style of art that many of us can use in our A Level experience in art.