This residential trip in York was an opportunity for eight Art and Design and Technology students, from Year 9 – 12, to design and create their own stained glass panel. The workshops were led by master craftspeople, Keith Barley and Helen Whittaker at their studio in York. Barley Studio has an international reputation for excellence in stained glass creation and conservation for cathedrals, stately homes; more recently they have completed the David Hockney window in Westminster Abbey.
The given brief of ‘DC 400’ required students to prepare their artwork ahead of the trip and to consider ‘what Dulwich means to them’. Each student interpreted this brief in a way personal to them. Themes included: The College buildings, history, music, sport and the ethos of the school.
We felt very fortunate to spend two days with these industry experts learning how to paint, cut and lead our very own glass panels. Keith and Helen were particularly impressed with the level of creativity, skill and perseverance the boys displayed over the two days. This was not an easy skill to pick up with no prior training, but all students (and teachers) came away from this trip with a sense of accomplishment, pride and a new-found appreciation of stained glass. Students and staff alike thoroughly enjoyed their time at Barley Studio.
