PUPILS, parents and teachers at Lansbury Bridge School were surprised by a new ‘floating’ artwork unveiled at their building this week...all made by the students to show how simple ideas can transform spaces.

Students at the special school, which caters for children aged three to 16, worked alongside the Heart of Glass to create ‘Circle Shadows Overhead’.

This features 125 individual artworks - made from fabric, paints and other materials - which have been hung together from the ceiling in the school’s entrance hall.

The ‘clouds’ can also be projected on to, giving pupils and staff the chance to curate the space with video, images and light.

Artist in Residence Cathy Cross, installed the work over the weekend so that it was a surprise at the start of the day for both staff, pupils and parents and carers.

She said: “This was always part of the plan, to create a moment of looking up and seeing what is possible.

“Creating magical spaces with the people who work, eat and play in them every day is always a privilege.

“I can’t wait to see what we can do with the space next.”

The project has received an incredibly positive reaction from staff and pupils as Lansbury’s deputy head Helen Birkenhead explained: “The whole process has benefited our pupils - from experiencing the new ambience in the classroom and collaborating with their peers to helping host the installation event.

"Our newly appointed Arts Ambassadors demonstrated confidence in welcoming guests, showcasing their work and eliciting feedback on the installation.

"Many have been inspired to speak to the attending artists about career opportunities.

"During lunchtimes it is lovely to see pupils looking up at the work; pointing out their individual contribution and watching the light (natural or projected) change across the surface of the hoops.

"It has also been rewarding to hear our pupils using descriptive and emotive language when describing the process and the finished installation.”