A unique artwork by one of the world’s leading street artists in tribute to a legendary British king is being unveiled at a Highbridge school.
An extraordinary historical 30 foot King Alfred the Great portrait has been painted at The King Alfred School Academy in Highbridge as part of a celebration of Somerset Day.
To celebrate the Great King and to help the students have a better understanding of their school namesake, the school have enlisted the help of world-renowned artist Andrew Burns Colwill.
The artwork mixes history with the modern world and will be unveiled to the school’s 1200 students this Friday 10th May alongside a day of fun educational activities including other artwork, historical re-enactments, assemblies, and competitions.
To celebrate Somerset Day there will be a student battle of the bands, a Viking re-enactment, a visit by BARB, and visits from St John’s Ambulance, local artists, police and more.
It will spark art and musical events at the school to involve the whole community and region in the celebration of the great King.
Artist Andy has worked for many years on projects across the country and the globe. He has been painting canvases since he was a child and his artwork has been on the streets of Bristol since the late 1970s as he was one of the original Bristol street artists.
Principal Nathan Jenkins said: “King Alfred was rightly called ‘great’ and his legacy should be celebrated through the country. He founded primary school education for example and is responsible for preserving the English language. This is a fitting tribute to him.”
“King Alfred was brave, determined and visionary and our students are very proud of our heritage and history. We felt this this artwork would be a suitable tribute that everyone could enjoy. The King lived and did his amazing historical feats right in this area.”
“We were thrilled to secure Andy’s support for this project and look forward to seeing the work develop. Andy is keen to share his process and experience with the students, who will have the privilege of seeing him work live.”
The King is the world patron and ambassador for Somerset and celebrated across the county for Somerset Day each year on 11th May.
