Craft Challenge Champions

A group of Form 3 Concord students have been crowned winners of Yinka’s Challenge, a nationwide competition by Craft School.

Yinka Ilori is a contemporary artist and designer, who draws upon his British-Nigerian heritage to create bright and bold playful designs on furniture and in public spaces. Ilori’s work includes architecture, textiles, interior design, sculpture and furniture.

Yinka’s Challenge encourages young people to use handmade techniques in crafting, exploring materials, taking risks and making art in 3D forms. The challenge encourages and nurtures creative thinking and those who enter must submit a project that encompasses the theme of play, storytelling or empowerment.

Inspired by Ilori’s use of upcycling in his artwork, ad incorporating the theme of ‘Empowerment’, the team of Concord students created a new life for a cushion bought from a charity shop. The group used their skills in wet felting, needle felting, hand embroidery and machine embroidery to create a piece of artwork that celebrates and represents each of the six individuals in the group. The team were grateful for the support and enthusiasm from Concord’s art teacher, Miss Lucy Dentith.

“We connected the earths with yarn and needle felted hearts to show how love can connect and empower people to do good things”, said one Concord student, who also explained how the colours in the final piece are inspired by the flags of the countries that each member of the group hails from.

Head of Art, Mr Anthony Hudson, commented on the Form 3’s achievements: “This talented group of students and their teacher, Miss Dentith, should be very proud of themselves for winning Yinka’s challenge. With this project, they have collaborated creatively, explored their own fascinating ideas, and developed so many skills along the way. Their work is so colourful and positive, and a lovely addition to our department. Well done everyone!”