AoC Sixth Form Colleges’ Fine Art Exhibition, House of Commons 17-20th March 2014

AoC Sixth Form Colleges’ Fine Art Exhibition, House of Commons 17-20^th March 2014

The AoC (Association of Colleges) Sixth Form Colleges’ Art Exhibition showcases some of the best fine Art produced by Sixth Form College students. This is its first year and one of our A2 Fine Artists, Jenny Betts, was lucky enough to have a piece of her work selected for this exhibition, held at the House of Commons.



Bev and Jenny outside the Houses of Parliament

No mean feat as over 90 colleges entered with hundreds of submissions of student art work. Only 21 entries from 20 colleges were short listed for exhibition. The entries highlighted not only the quality but the extraordinary diversity of art in Sixth Form Colleges.

View of the exhibition in the Upper Waiting Hall in the House of Commons

 

 The exhibition was on display in the Upper Waiting Hall of the House of Commons with an official launch by Michael Gove.  Jenny was lucky enough to meet Mr Gove as he looked around the exhibition and he showed great personal interest in her artwork. He asked her about her ideas and inspiration for her piece. He was particularly interested in artists who have inspired her. 

Jenny discussing her artwork with Michael Gove

We then went for a reception on the House of Commons terrace overlooking The Thames, and met John Bercow who gave a speech about the value of Art within education. 

Jenny and all the other young Artists with John Bercow, Speaker of the House

 

 Many college representatives attended the event along with students whose work was exhibited and Jenny was in great demand for photographs and interviews. She also met Sarah Champion, the Rotherham MP, who was so impressed with Jenny’s work and ambition she intends to visit TRCs’ Art Department to find out more about our enterprise and competition initiatives.

 

Jenny and Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham

Finally, Jenny was warmly welcomed by Mark Bramwell, who is the Director of AoC. He is visiting TRC at a later date in April and was also so impressed by her work and commitment to art that he also intends to visit our Art Department when he is here. 

Jenny and her artwork, bottom piece

Well done Jenny! She is a great ambassador for the college and should be very proud of her success at this very important exhibition.

Group shot of all the young Artists and Michael Gove