Over 400 children received awards, performed and exhibited their artworks at Tate Britain on 21st June 2008

On 21st June, over 400 pupils from 7 primary schools in the London Boroughs of Newham, Greenwich and Westminster came together at Tate Britain, with parents, teachers, artists and writers to celebrate the works of art that they created in the past academic year as part of the VerbalEyes programme. The children also received a certificate to commemorate their achievements.

VerbalEyes: finding a voice through art, is an annual programme sponsored by Tate Lyle and run by Tate Britain that helps children develop their art and literacy skills through the unique experience of engaging with original works of art. The programme operates in three phases throughout the academic year starting with teacher training, looking at how art can be used in the classroom, followed by a visit to Tate Britain for the children to explore the Tate Collection and to inspire them to produce a final piece of collaborative artwork. VerbalEyes then culminates in the Family Day at Tate Britain, bringing families and schools together to celebrate the children’s achievements on display and to enjoy a day of fun and creative activities in the gallery, supported by Tate Lyle employees.

The activities undertaken by the children throughout Family Day and the final VerbalEyes exhibition, covered a multitude of themes and ideas. On level 2 of Tate Britain in the Duveens galleries and octagon space, Edward Wilson, Greenslade and Charlton Manor Primary Schools explored mythology, transformation and the unfinished artwork. In the Millbank studio, Manor Primary responded to the connecting nature of the Thames. In the Clore foyer on level 1, Gallions, Essex and Essendine Primary Schools explored growth, gestures and change.

Pupils and their families had the chance to see their work displayed throughout Tate Britain and many of the works will remain on display at the gallery until 30th June and online at www.tate.org.uk/britain/verbaleyes from September 2008.

Ken Wilson, Community Relations Officer, Tate Lyle, said:

“VerbalEyes continues to help many children realise that they can develop key skills such as literacy, speaking and listening skills and creativity in a very fun and exciting way. The programme allows children to express themselves and improve self-esteem through performance, debate and art work whilst at the same time helping school staff to understand how art can play a greater role in professional development. We are extremely proud to once again support VerbalEyes and of the excellent achievements that have resulted from the children taking part in the scheme.”

Julian Bird, Chief Operating Officer, Tate, added:

“We are very grateful to Tate Lyle for their longstanding support of this fantastic initiative. The family day in particular gives us all a chance to celebrate the successes of the project and to see the children’s work on display”