New Exhibition Celebrates Island Young People’s Creativity at Quay Arts

A vibrant new exhibition showcasing the talent of young people from across the Isle of Wight has opened at the Quay Arts in Newport.

The free exhibition, themed ‘Energy’, brings together artwork from students at 13 Island primary, secondary, and all-through schools.

It has been curated by Quay Arts in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council Public Health team’s PEACH programme, highlighting a wide range of imaginative responses to the theme.

Visitors can explore both individual and collaborative pieces, created using an impressive variety of materials and techniques.

The works reflect how young artists interpret energy – from physical movement and natural forces to emotions, wellbeing, and community spirit – in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms.

PEACH, which stands for Partnership for Education, Attainment and Children’s Health, works with schools to improve educational outcomes while promoting healthier lifestyles.

The programme focuses on reducing health inequalities, encouraging positive behaviours in schools, and creating supportive environments where children and young people can thrive.

At the core of PEACH are four key areas: personal, social, health and economic education (PSHE), physical activity, healthy eating, and emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Schools work towards these goals through an award system aligned with the PEACH framework.

Cath Hall from PEACH said the exhibition offered a chance to take the programme beyond the classroom, saying:

“This year’s exhibition allows us to bring PEACH into the wider community, showcasing both the fantastic work happening in schools and the creativity of our Island pupils.

"We are thrilled to feature work from primary through to secondary students, with pieces created individually and collaboratively, in 2D and 3D.”

The exhibition runs until Sunday 26 April in the Clayden Gallery and café at Quay Arts.

For more information about PEACH, visit Education, attainment and children's health - Isle of Wight or email peach@iow.gov.uk.