Tyne Diorama

The Tyne Diorama project was an arts education initiative that involved the Cabinet of Curiosity Studio and primary school pupils in co-creating two paper diorama artworks representing the River Tyne, from its source to the sea. The project highlighted ten iconic landmarks along the river route, which were chosen by the schools. These landmarks included Hexham Abbey, Newcastle Cathedral, the Angel of the North, the Tyne Bridge, and the Herd Groyne Lighthouse in South Shields.

The artworks were developed during a series of full and half-day workshops held at Greenhead School and Henshaw School, under the direct guidance of the artists. During these sessions, students were introduced to papercraft techniques and used a colour palette inspired by nature.

The final artworks were designed to be wall-mounted in a landscape orientation. To ensure longevity, high-quality Italian paper materials selected by the artists were treated with varnish, providing a minimum lifespan of 5 to 10 years.

"It was a pleasure to work with Cabinet of Curiosity at both of our schools.  Edmond and Caroline were wonderful with the children and the workshops were enjoyed by all.  It is wonderful to have such a high-quality piece of artwork displayed as a legacy for this project." Mike Glenton, Executive Head Teacher, Henshaw CE Aided Primary School and Greenhead C of E Primary School.

"I liked learning about the different places in our area and then making these out of paper - it was amazing when I saw the completed display." School participant 1.

"I learnt how to do art which I never knew I could do before.  I like that when we walk past the diorama, we remember that we created this as a class." School participant 2.

Image credits

TYNE DIORAMA, 2024, Cabinet of Curiosity Studio, Arts education commission

Photos: Cabinet of Curiosity Studio and Mike Glenton

Tyne Diorama Project, Henshaw CE Aided Primary School and Greenhead C of E Primary School, Northumberland and Cumbria, UK
June - September 2024