Students transform Canvey Island Salvation Army church

A Salvation Army church in Canvey Island has been given a colourful makeover thanks to some local art students. 

The church on Mitchells Avenue is now adorned with eight paintings including a colourful octopus with the message ‘root for each other and watch each other’ next to its tentacles and a giraffe with the caption ‘we build fellowship every day’ to symbolise the values of The Salvation Army. The works have been hung throughout the building on giant wooden boards.

Hilary Johnston is pioneer leader of the church and charity and said the collaboration took shape when she visited USP College in South Benfleet looking to recruit volunteers. 

She said: “I spoke to the tutors, and they asked me if I was able to offer any work experience. I knew the hall needed a bit of work, so we came up with an assignment for some of the art students. I told them I was looking for paintings to reflect our values of community, faith and fellowship.

The project enabled 38 first year UAL Level 3 Diploma in Art students the opportunity to submit designs which were drafted in sketchbooks, with the individuals and groups who use the hall choosing the final eight artworks to be created and go on display.

Hilary said she was delighted with the students’ efforts and an official unveiling is planned for September.

She said: “What a wonderful opportunity to work together with these talented young student artists. It was the first time they had worked on such big boards, but they have completely transformed the building and it’s now like walking into an art gallery. All the students are aged between 16 and 18 – one of the mums came down and said she couldn’t believe her son had done something like this.”

USP College tutors, Adrian Lane and Dave Taylor led the project.

Dave said: “We wanted to simulate the conditions of a professional commission, responding to the needs of a client and presenting a proposal. Students can use these pieces in their portfolios for employment or Higher Education opportunities. All the students rose to the challenge and were successful in producing much more ambitious works than they would normally attempt at this stage.”

The College, which runs a number of course in Art and Design, is often looking for opportunities to provide students with live briefs from clients and businesses. It is fantastic for the students to be able to see their artwork on display as well as receive feedback.

The Salvation Army at Canvey Island runs a toddler group on Tuesday morning from 10am to 11.30am. They also run Stuff on the Bus, a community supermarket which travels around Canvey Island.

More activities are planned for September.

For more information, go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/canvey-island