Our 10 favourite photos of Sheffield school’s 400-piece community art exhibition

The walls outside Nether Green Junior School have been lined with 400 pieces of artwork in the run-up to Christmas – all made by children in years 3-6.

The exhibition has become a local attraction in the past week, with those passing by stopping to admire the artwork, and even contacting the school with their feedback.

"It’s really captured the community’s imagination,” said art leader Fiona Agar.

"It began with the children taking part in a life skills lesson earlier in the term, where they learned about the importance of community, and all the challenges it’s currently facing – from Covid and Christmas, to the weather.

"We decided to create an exhibition to raise the spirits of the whole community – and it definitely seems to be working.”

Each year group tackled a different theme with their artwork – some examining the concept of Christmas, or celebrating the seasons, and others exploring the joy of snow.

“The snow pictures have had some really interesting feedback,” said Fiona.

"Many of the children drew or painted people with their heads back, looking up at the sky open-mouthed as snow falls.

"It just shows you how interpretive art is - some people thought they were carol singing, others nicknamed them ‘the screamer pictures’ and thought they were expressions of frustration about lockdown.

"We’ve had all kinds of lovely feedback, in writing or by phone calls to the school office.”

One local resident, a 62-year-old man known only as Phil, commented: ‘As I was walking towards it, I was intrigued. Wondering what it all was. I liked the screamers.

‘Some made me laugh. The umbrellas were clever. Made me think - whatever happens, we’ll be OK. Thank you for doing this.’

Another comment, from Simon, read: ‘It made me stop, think, smile and be happy that you’d all taken the time to do this.’

Another message said: ‘Brilliant! Thank you for brightening up my morning. Loved them all. The screams made me laugh and think about what it sometimes feels to be in lockdown or just living these times.’

Fiona added: “The children have been absolutely delighted by the community response.”