A Clash of Styles - Half Moon Theatre

13 July–14 September 2026

Half Moon is delighted to be hosting A Clash of Styles, our eleventh annual exhibition of artwork by talented young people from local secondary schools. This vibrant showcase is in partnership with the Tower Hamlets Artist Teacher Network (THAT) and this year we’re thrilled to be working with students from Bow School and Swanlea School.

The exhibition features an impressive and hugely contrasting mix of work by Year 8 students – from delicate pastel paintings of the natural world to bold graphic collages reflecting the world around us. There’s something special about seeing the world through the eyes of young artists and their creativity, skill and individuality really shine through.

At Bow School, students from Year 8 created artwork in response to the stimulus ‘protest’. Within the project, they researched the works of US collage artist Ralph Arnold and UK stencil artist Banksy. Throughout the project, students chose an area of injustice they felt passionate about through the lens of three general principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC): Article 2 – No Discrimination; Article 24 – Health, Water, Food and Environment; Article Right 38 – Protection from War.

They then used the collage and stencil process to create images that communicate their thoughts on these issues. The project was aimed at engaging young students with significant world events around them and provide them with a creative outlet to voice their thoughts.

Bow School Year 8 Students

Meanwhile, at Swanlea School, more students from Year 8 engaged in a GCSE taster curriculum based on the theme ‘Natural Forms’ inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe. Students made studies of poppy seeds, flowers and fruits with vibrant colours similar to the artist.

A Clash of Styles is part of Half Moon’s ongoing commitment to supporting young artists in Tower Hamlets. We’re proud to provide a platform for local students to share their work, build confidence and imagine exciting futures in the creative industries.

Swanlea School Year 8 Students

THAT Network London Bow School Swanlea School

A Clash of Styles foyer exhibition

Exhibition Programme Gallery Trail

Interact with the exhibition

Visitors of all ages are invited to respond creatively to the artworks on display. Chalkboards positioned beneath selected artworks provide space to share thoughts, draw pictures and leave creative messages for others to enjoy.

Children can also take part in a specially designed Gallery Trail, encouraging them to explore the exhibition in a fun and interactive way.

School and community groups are welcome to visit free of charge with advance booking. The exhibition can also support Arts Award Discover and Explore activities. For more information or to arrange a group visit, please contact Androulla on 020 7709 8908 or email youth@halfmoon.org.uk.

Opening times

A Clash of Styles is on display at Gallery @ Half Moon from 13 July to 14 September 2026. The exhibition is open during theatre opening hours, Monday to Friday, 10am–6pm.

Art at Half Moon

Alongside our foyer exhibition programme, you can discover more art throughout the building and grounds. Visit Snapped 1990 | 2020 in the Half Moon Garden, a striking photography exhibition that captures the changing face of Tower Hamlets through images of the same locations taken 30 years apart.

In the upper corridor, Stages of Half Moon offers a fascinating glimpse into the theatre’s history. This permanent exhibition is packed with photographs, original posters and memorabilia celebrating the rich heritage of Half Moon Theatre.

Discover Snapped 1990 | 2020 Explore the Stages of Half Moon archive