Andover Railway Station is currently giving local community artists the rare chance to have their work displayed publicly.
Andover Station was recently adopted by a branch of The Arts Society, and The Arts Society Test Valley is now working with other stations on the South Western Railway (SWR) network to celebrate the achievements of local young people and enhance the travelling experience of passengers.
With help from SWR and funding from Community Rail Network, The Arts Society Test Valley has installed lockable frames in the waiting rooms at Andover Station, enabling local schools and colleges to display their artwork in the new exhibition space for the public to see.
Platform 1 is currently showcasing pieces created by young people at Smannell Field School and Enham Trust, whilst on Platform 2 there are three pieces created by children at The Scotts Centre. The artworks will be changed three times per annum (each school term), giving more young people the opportunity to display their work publicly.
The project was organised by Anne Isherwood and Jan Wells, who both volunteer at The Arts Society Test Valley, with help from Andover Station Manager Daniel Holmes.
Paige Richards, senior lead playworker, and Abi Noakes, playworker, from The Scotts Centre, said: “As an after-school club, we have never been a part of something like this, so it’s been really nice to be involved. The children are so proud of themselves and they’re so happy to see their work on display!”
Roma Nichol, an activities programme manager at Enham Trust, said: “It’s great to have this opportunity and it’s brilliant to be able to share this space with other members of the community.”
Jess Goodyear, art teacher at Smannell Field School, thanked The Arts Society Test Valley for giving them the opportunity to connect with other people within Andover.
If you would like your school to be involved or would like some further information, get in contact via janetpwells13@gmail.com. You can also keep up to date with future projects and events from The Arts Society Test Valley via their Facebook page.
