Students at Seashell have donated a display of ceramic toadstools to a local rotary garden at Handforth Station.

Students created their own unique mushroom shape whilst taking part in the collaborative installation, reflecting their personality and diversity in each sculpture.

The toadstool installation, named ‘Out of the Darkness’, was inspired by the work of local artist, Tine Hagen Dalgarrd, who worked with Seashell students before lockdown to kick start the toadstool project.

Once lockdown began students continued to create the sculptures from clay in their art sessions with Seashell Teacher, Lauren Mullarkey, and Art Assistant, Maxine Perkins. Seashell staff also got involved in their very own art training sessions.

The tactile experience of working with clay establishes a sensory experience that was accessible to all students involved, particularly those with visual impairments.

Art Assistant, Maxine, delivered many of the sessions. Speaking of the installation, she said: “Creating these lovely toadstools has brought a lot of joy to everyone involved!

“The students really enjoy working with clay as it is so tactile, and the staff have taken pride in their achievements. They look as though they have sprung up overnight and are fabulous.”

Seashell’s toadstool installation can be seen at the rotary garden at Handforth Station, SK9 3BA.