Inspiring Life Drawing at Penlee House

Sixteen pupils and students from Year 7 through to Sixth Form, who have been studying life drawing at Truro School, attended a specialist workshop at Penlee House Museum, where they sketched a model dressed as a traditional fisherwoman. The session was designed as an extension of the life drawing club delivered at school and allowed pupils to apply and develop their skills in an authentic, real-world setting.

The workshop was inspired by the work of Walter Langley, a leading figure of the Newlyn School, whose depictions of Cornish life provided a rich artistic context for the experience. Truro School pupils responded brilliantly to the challenge, producing an outstanding body of work that reflected both technical skill and creative interpretation.

The success of the visit has also sparked an exciting community outreach initiative. Mr Brett has established a partnership with Richard Lander School, and next week, pupils from Richard Lander will visit Truro School to take part in a dedicated life drawing masterclass. Led by a team of Truro School Student Arts Leaders (from Years 8 to 10), the session will provide an opportunity to share expertise and inspire the next generation of young artists. It is also a fantastic mentoring and leadership opportunity for our pupils, and we look forward to seeing their confidence shine.

Following their workshop at Truro School, the Richard Lander pupils will go on to visit Penlee House themselves, where they will apply their newly developed skills. This growing collaboration reflects the strength of the Art department at Truro School and its commitment to enriching learning through meaningful partnerships and creative experiences.