Top young artists take centre stage

Half Moon is delighted to be hosting its 11th exhibition celebrating the creativity and talent of young people from local secondary schools.

A Clash of Styles, presented in partnership with the Tower Hamlets Artist Teacher Network (THAT Network), brings together a vibrant collection of artwork by Year 8 students from Bow School and Swanlea School.

The exhibition showcases an exciting contrast of artistic approaches, from delicate pastel paintings inspired by the natural world to bold graphic collages responding to social issues. Together, the works demonstrate the creativity, technical skill and individuality of the borough’s young artists.

At Bow School, students created their artwork in response to the theme ‘protest’. Inspired by the work of US collage artist Ralph Arnold and UK stencil artist Banksy, they explored how art can communicate powerful messages.

Using collage and stencil techniques, they created thought-provoking artworks reflecting issues including discrimination, environmental justice and the protection of children affected by war, inspired by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Meanwhile, Year 8 students at Swanlea School explored the theme ‘natural forms’ as part of a GCSE taster curriculum inspired by the artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Through vibrant studies of poppy seed heads, flowers and fruit, they experimented with colour, scale and close observation to create expressive artworks celebrating the beauty of the natural world.

Together, the two projects highlight the breadth of artistic talent in Tower Hamlets, with students responding to very different themes while developing their own creative voices.

A Clash of Styles is part of Half Moon’s ongoing commitment to supporting young artists across Tower Hamlets. By providing a professional gallery space for local students to exhibit their work, Half Moon helps young people build confidence, celebrate their achievements and imagine exciting futures in the creative industries.

This year’s exhibition continues a partnership that has become a much-loved annual tradition. Over the years, Half Moon has worked with 16 schools across the borough, giving hundreds of young artists the opportunity to experience the excitement of seeing their work exhibited to the public.

The initiative has also celebrated the borough’s wider artistic community, including a special exhibition in 2017 showcasing the work of 19 artist-teachers working in local schools.

A Clash of Styles is free to visit until 14 September 2026 at Half Moon. Find out more at the button below.

Stephen Beeny is Communications Manager at Half Moon.