On Wednesday 22nd October, Art students were treated to a workshop led by acclaimed artist Jeanette Barnes, whose vast cityscapes and architectural drawings have earned her national recognition — and, most recently, an art prize celebrating her distinctive vision.
Barnes’s work is known for its energetic, sweeping lines and its ability to translate the restless rhythm of urban life onto paper. She doesn’t merely depict buildings; she captures the movement, sound, and atmosphere of the city — the hum of traffic, the flux of people, the shifting light.
During the workshop, students had the chance to witness her process first hand. Barnes spoke passionately about her fascination with architecture and urban spaces, describing how her drawings grow from quick, gestural sketches into monumental compositions filled with vitality and texture. She encouraged students to embrace imperfection, to draw boldly and spontaneously, and to let the energy of observation guide their hand.
As she demonstrated her techniques, the room buzzed with concentration and excitement. Students were invited to explore large-scale drawing themselves — stepping back from the easel, using their whole arm to make sweeping marks, and learning how scale can change the way an artwork feels. The session was not just about technique but about seeing differently: recognizing that cities are living, breathing organisms, full of stories and motion.
By the end of the day, the room were filled with bold, expressive drawings — traces of individual interpretations of movement, architecture, and atmosphere. The workshop left a lasting impression, inspiring students to think bigger, draw braver, and observe the world around them with renewed intensity.
This inspiring day reflects the thriving creativity within our Art and Photography Department, where students consistently achieve outstanding results through passion, exploration, and a deep commitment to developing their artistic voice.
