Upper 1 enjoyed a fascinating trip to the National Portrait Gallery, where they had the opportunity to discover portraits of some of the most significant and recognisable figures from British history and culture.
Surrounded by an extraordinary collection of faces and stories, the girls were encouraged to look carefully at the portraits and think beyond what they could immediately see. Who was the person in the picture? What might their portrait tell us about their life, character or achievements? And what clues had the artist included to help tell their story?
Exploring the galleries gave the girls an opportunity to consider portraiture as much more than simply a record of someone’s appearance. Through close observation and discussion, they were able to think about how artists use expression, pose, clothing, setting and other details to communicate something about their subject.
The visit was also a wonderful chance to bring together art and history. Encountering portraits first-hand allowed the girls to connect people with their stories and consider how individuals from different periods have been represented and remembered.
There was plenty to capture their attention as they made their way around the Gallery, with each portrait offering something new to notice, question and discuss. The experience encouraged the girls to be curious, share their observations and look closely at the details that can sometimes be missed at first glance.
Beyond the portraits themselves, the trip provided a valuable opportunity to take learning outside the classroom and experience one of London’s major cultural institutions. Days such as these allow the girls to explore subjects in a different environment and discover how art, history and storytelling can come together.
Upper 1 returned to school after an inspiring day filled with famous faces, fascinating stories and plenty of new discoveries.
