The talent of four Fife pupils has caught the eye of Scotland’s leading arts advocates.
Richard Demarco was “blown away” with the quality of the work of four sixth-year Advanced Higher art and design pupils from Buckhaven High.
Teacher Gillian McLaren told The Courier the art supremo has told the pupils “he hadn’t seen anything like it in his life”.
“He said he would love to exhibit their works further.”
Now he is planning to work with a Fife gallery owner to help develop the young artists’ careers at the Edinburgh Fringe this autumn.
Bethany Farmer, Heather Millar, Aidan Landels and Alix Davidson have all shown exceptional talent and skill beyond their years this session, said Miss McLaren.
Bethany, Heather and Aidan have accepted unconditional offers to study at Duncan of Jordanstone while Alix has accepted a similar offer from Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen. Away from the world of academe, they’ve been spotted by the art world too.
Mark Cashley, owner and manager of the Tatha Gallery in Newport, was bowled over by the pupils’ portfolios when he made a trip to view their work last December.
“He was extremely impressed by their work and he has worked with national and international clients,” Miss McLaren said. “He saw the potential in their work.”
He has decided to embark on an exciting project with the four youngsters who have been asked to produce a piece of art to be exhibited at the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh this August.
“This is an incredible opportunity for such young artists,” their teacher added.
Then they were given the chance to visit Mr Demarco, one of the leading figures in the art world, who returned the favour by touring the department this week.
“He is planning on working with Mark in promoting their work further at the Fringe,” said Miss McLaren.
This is the first collection of the young artists.
“I am delighted with all the pupils have achieved in their final year,” added their proud teacher.