Ceramic artworks created by a Richmondshire teacher will be feature on national TV this week.
Work by Risedale School’s head of art, Jaime Westwood, will appear on Grayson’s Art Club screened 8pm on Friday on Channel 4.
Grayson Perry’s critically acclaimed Art Club is now in its third series showcasing work by artists, comedians and popular figures as well as members of the general public.
Each week Art Club focuses on a different theme accepting submissions of any type of art including paintings, sculpture, drawings and collages, from amateurs and professionals alike.
Jaime’s work was selected for the programme after she submitted a short video and photos of her ceramics for the upcoming programme exploring the theme ‘Inside My Head’.
Since April 2021, Jaime has produced an collection of 100 ceramic bon bon dishes, each individually hand-made and decorated with text and images depicting a different memory or reflection on life at that moment.
Jaime said, “I was speechless when I received the call from Grayson’s production team telling me that I might be on the programme.
“I couldn’t believe it. It was such a mix of emotions, I was so excited and absolutely terrified – but so glad that I did it.”
Grayson interviewed Jaime via a Zoom call from her classroom at Risedale.
He asked her about her work, what inspired her and wanted to know more about some of the stories behind her bon bon dishes.
Jaime said: “Before the interview, I was so nervous but once I started talking with Grayson it just felt like I was chatting with a friend. I’m not sure how much of our conversation will actually be shown in the programme but even just to say that I’ve spoken with Grayson Perry is such a privilege.
“It was an amazing experience.”
Risedale’s headteacher, Colin Scott said, “The Risedale Family is incredibly proud of Ms Westwood. It’s wonderful to see that her passion for the creative arts continues to flourish even under the pressure of lockdown and the daily challenges that teaching can often bring.
“I know that when our pupils see her on Grayson’s Art Club it will undoubtedly be an inspirational moment.”
Jaime has been head of art at Risedale School for nine years after graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Sunderland, followed by a PGCE in Art and Design at Northumbria University.
Throughout her teaching career, Jaime has continued to work as a practising artist and recently her work has predominantly focussed on contemporary ceramic sculpture and studio ceramics. She is an active member of The Northern Potters Association and is also the resident artist for EPICH (Eco People In Croft and Hurworth) producing artwork and installations within the parish with a focus on improving green spaces.
You can find out more about Jaime’s work by following her on Jam Westwood (@jam.westwood) • Instagram photos and videos or by visiting www.jamwestwood.com
