We are delighted, once again, to collaborate with Manor Mead School on a captivating community art project in 2023. This exhibition, titled ‘Namaste,’ explores the theme of positive energy and light, drawing inspiration from the beauty of self-expression. Isabel Gomes, an esteemed educational textile artist, will guide, lead and inspire the pupils throughout their artistic journey.

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Having moved to London in 1990, Isabel’s passion for fashion design and textiles led her to pursue further education and training at Cavendish College and Central Saint Martin’s. With a focus on sustainability, she has exhibited her works at renowned venues such as the Craft Study Centre in Farnham and the Riverside Barn in Walton.

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Working together with the teachers, volunteers and pupils aged between 8 and 11, each with their unique abilities and disabilities, Isabel will embark on a creative journey that celebrates their voices and fosters well-being. This transformative eight-week project will enable the students to share their experiences and emotions through the power of art. Working with a variety of artistic mediums, each pupil will create small individual pieces to finally be assembled into a grand embroidered and hand painted artwork. The aim is to stimulate the senses, inspire their imagination, and nurture a sense of personal growth, ultimately encouraging a sense of overall well-being.

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Aligned with sustainability principles, Isabel will utilise scrap fabrics in this artistic process. These repurposed materials, combined with embroidery, will create a captivating tapestry of art and resilience.

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At the core of this project lies the concept of Namaste - an ancient word that embodies love, respect, and unity. The pupils will come together to craft a vibrant patchwork of flowers, symbolising the essence of Namaste and representing the interconnectedness of all things.

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The final outcome will be a merging of ideas formulated by the children and artist working together through an engaging and enjoyable process to create a final art installation to be on show to the public in the Gallery space. We invite you to join us in celebrating the extraordinary achievements of these young artists.