The creativity and imagination of pupils at Vigo Primary School are set to be celebrated in spectacular fashion this weekend as a unique children’s art exhibition reaches its grand finale at Chapel Arts Studio.
The exhibition, titled We All Have Different Eyes, showcases artwork created by Vigo pupils and has been made possible through the passion and dedication of specialist Art Teacher, Mrs Marta Lichocinska.
The exhibition was inspired by Marta’s belief that children’s creativity deserves to be recognised and celebrated just as much as the work of adult artists.
She explained: “Children’s art is important. We should do everything we can to protect the unique way children see and process the world around them.”
Originally, the school had planned to host exhibitions within the school itself. However, the idea quickly grew into something much bigger.
“We wanted to put more light on the importance of art education for primary-aged children and challenge the traditional thinking that no matter how good a child’s artwork is, it should always end up on the fridge,” Marta said.
That vision led to a collaboration with Chapel Arts Studio, where children’s artwork has been professionally curated and displayed in a gallery setting.
The result is an exhibition that celebrates creativity in what Marta describes as “its purest, happiest form”.
Since 2023, Marta has held the specialist Art Teacher role at Vigo Primary School, a position created to inspire pupils and raise creativity throughout the school.
School leaders say her enthusiasm for art has transformed the learning experience for children and staff alike. She has also been instrumental in creating a dedicated art room within the school, giving pupils from Reception through to Year 6 a specialist space in which to explore their creativity.
The impact she has had on pupils is clear.
One child said: “Whatever we produce, Miss Marta supports what we have created. She believes in us and never gives up on us. She inspires us to think outside the box and come up with ideas which are unique and personal to us.”
Another added: “You can just feel her effort and energy in the lessons that she teaches. This motivates me to create artwork that is the best it can possibly be.”
Others spoke about the resilience she has helped them develop.
“She teaches us resilience. The biggest thing I’ve learnt is that when I think work is ruined, Miss Marta has taught me how to be creative and take my work in a different direction.”
The exhibition has also had a significant impact on pupils and parents.
One pupil said: “It makes us proud of ourselves because people even outside our school will see our work. That makes us like Miss Marta – a professional artist.”
Parents have praised the opportunity for children to display their work in a genuine gallery environment, with one describing it as a “fantastic opportunity” that could inspire young people to continue their artistic journeys.
Marta believes creative subjects such as art play a vital role in children’s development.
“During art lessons, children build confidence because there is never a single right answer,” she said.
She added that art helps pupils develop resilience, determination, focus and independence while also providing a valuable outlet for emotional wellbeing.
“Some children can find reading, writing and maths extremely challenging, so art gives us a safe space to regulate and switch off from everyday struggles. It’s a very powerful tool to support mental health.”
When asked if there was a particular piece of artwork that stood out, Marta found it impossible to choose.
“Behind every work is a child, and behind every child is a story,” she said. “I hope this experience will help them grow wings, and one day spread them wide to fly.”
The exhibition finale takes place at Chapel Arts Studio on Saturday at 3pm, and the school is encouraging the local community to attend.
Marta said: “Seeing the world through children’s eyes is incredible. We are often too busy to appreciate it.”
She hopes community support will encourage similar opportunities for children in the future.
“This is definitely a great place to be, to stop for a moment, smile and reflect. It’s a wonderful, powerful experience.”
The finale of We All Have Different Eyes takes place at Chapel Arts Studio on Saturday at 3pm and is open to the public.