EXPRESSIVE art from young local talent has come together for a month-long showcase at Bridgwater's Arts Centre.

Year 10 and 11 students at Elmwood, Haygrove and Chilton Trinity schools, Bridgwater College Academy and Robert Blake Science College are exhibiting their creative efforts.

Amy Wiltshire, art teacher at Chilton Trinity, said: “This year we’ve tried to ensure that current students are in it so they have a chance to feel good about their work and celebrate.

“There’s a great selection of skills, angles and aims – it’s a real step up in quality.”

Haygrove School art head Barry Heath said: “The work from Haygrove’s year 10 and 11s spans acrylic paints and mixed media through to watercolours, sculpture and photographs.

“We have portraiture, pop culture and work from the topic ‘Fantastic and Strange’, which is more surrealist.”

Nicola Mannion, creative head at Bridgwater College Academy, said: “The work is far more personalised this year and identities have been a big theme.

“It’s great for students to see the calibre of work they’re up against, and actually, whether they’re doing GCSE or BTEC, they’re all doing the same thing.”

Kate Lang, art teacher at Elmwood, for students with complex and multiple learning needs, said: “It’s one of the best exhibitions we’ve had. It all looks very professional.

“I know from carnival that we have a lot of talent and it shows.”

The Bridgwater schools’ GCSE Art Exhibition runs until Friday, February 7, 10am to 3pm, Wednesday to Friday, 7pm to 10pm on Wednesdays, and 10am to 1pm on Saturdays.