Page 4 - A Sense of Place

WELCOME
It is my pleasure as guest curator to welcome you to A Sense of Place. It is a privilege to be invited to aid in the curation of this outstanding display of artistic talent from pupils and staff, past and present.
As 2018’s Artist in Residence, I have been continually impressed by the Art Department and the wider community at the school. Top class facilities, dedicated teachers and staff and, of course, supremely talented and diligent pupils make the Art School at St Mary’s a wonderful, buzzing and highly creative place to learn. The inspiring selection of alumnae work shows what Calne Girls can and will achieve once they leave school and strike out on their own path. It is fascinating to see what wide-ranging achievements and interesting lives are generated and nurtured at this wonderful school.
As I move forward through my year as Artist in Residence (my first year in a school since graduating with a Masters in Fine Art last year), I am surprised and delighted by what I encounter from the girls on a daily basis. I am impressed by the mature and complicated themes explored by many
St Mary’s girls in their work, and the many hours they dedicate to its production. Work is consistently of a high quality, technically excellent and well executed. This is, of course, reflected in exam results and prizes. But the most impressive thing I have encountered at St Mary’s is the inquisitive spirit, dedicated attitude and boundless enthusiasm of the girls.
The work on show here covers broad-ranging themes including friendship, family, landscape, architecture, feminism and current affairs. Media used ranges from painting to printmaking, sculpture, photography and video. I hope you will enjoy the work of our students, alumnae, staff and several parents and whether you are well acquainted with the school or if this is your first encounter with us, I am pleased to welcome you to A Sense of Place.
NAOMI LITVACK
GUEST CURATOR AND ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT ST MARY’S CALNE
2 A SENSE OF PLACE