Wokingham

Talented artists from Wokingham Walter Infant School and Nursery have created an impression of a Masai child in the African bush in acrylics on canvas – as a very special gift.

On Tuesday May 16 Wokingham District Council’s deputy corporate head of children’s services Wendy Woodcock was presented with the artwork, to hang in her office at Wokingham council, produced by two extremely talented young pupils.

Wendy Woodcock was keen to have a piece of children’s artwork as the focal point of her Wokingham office. Knowing that she loves Africa and foreign travel, Jane Clark, the Wokingham council’s arts development adviser, suggested that the talented artists of Walter Infant School and Nursery, who are studying Africa this year, might create something for her. Two girls from the foundation class, Phoebe Costard and Georgia Yates, both aged six, went to work on an acrylic masterpiece that taught them new painting techniques, as well as African themes.

The painting was unveiled at a special tea party in Wendy’s bright and vibrant office, and both the artists attended to receive thank you presents of chocolate. Wendy said: “I couldn't be more delighted with the paintings that Phoebe and Georgia have produced for me. I asked that a child should feature in the piece of art being commissioned, because the words that guide our work in Children's Services are 'the child at the heart of all we do'. The Masai boy now gracing my wall brings that phrase to life each time I look at him.”

Wokingham District Council