Maryland Primary School art exhibition, which was funded by Black History Newham, has honoured the ambitions and achievements of inspirational Black Newham figures with an exhibition of students’ artwork featuring local heroes such as Ade Adepitan, Dawn Butler MP, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Idris Elba, Lennox Lewis, and Asquith Xavier.

Sabrina Charlery, Art and Design Lead at Maryland Primary School said: “The art exhibition demonstrates the pupils’ understanding of these key figures, their achievements and impact on our society.”

Dawn Butler MP visited the school in early December and was given a special school assembly, a tour of their Education for Change Equality Library and the art exhibition, accompanied by Head Teacher Lorna Jackson.

All the children were involved from ages four to 11 (Reception to Year 6). The whole school dedicated lesson time to investigating key figures. The children then produced a piece of artwork based on the style of Black artists such as Sonia Boyce who is from Newham, Chris Ofili and Yinka Shonibare CBE. Some pieces of art were individual and some were produced collectively.

Sabrina Charlery said: “This was our way of teaching history, social studies through the medium of art and paying homage to our Black Newham Heroes.”

Maryland Primary School educates their students about Black History throughout the year. Head Teacher Lorna Jackson explained: “It is important to note that Maryland’s ethos is not to celebrate Black History Month once a year, but for the school to educate, embed and integrate the achievements and impact of a diverse set of inspirational people all year round, so children have role models and ‘real’ models from all backgrounds to represent and inspire them.”

Sabrina Charlery has written Art 4Change, an art project for all primary schools and early years settings in Newham. The project also provides opportunities for all children from Nursery age to Year 6, aged 11 to begin to have conversations to challenge racism.

Ms Jackson said: “There has never been a more important time for us all to challenge racism through conversation and curriculum.”

When asked what message he would like to give to all Newham children, Adrian aged six and in Year 2 said: “We must be kind and caring, we are all equal. It doesn’t matter who you are, we must be fair.”

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