A heartwarming collaboration between Devizes School and Hayward Care Centre has culminated in a vibrant art exhibition, showcasing the creativity of both local students and care home residents.

On Thursday 10 July, the grounds of Hayward Care Centre were transformed into a lively cultural hub as more than 100 guests gathered to admire the work of 51 talented pupils from Years 7, 8, and 9 at Devizes School, displayed alongside pieces created by Hayward residents. The event brought together pupils, parents, teachers, residents, and community members, highlighting the power of art to bridge generations.

The exhibition was held in Hayward’s garden, which has previously been awarded in the Devizes in Bloom competition. Guests also enjoyed recorded music from the school’s Year 10 BTEC Music students, adding a personal touch to the evening’s ambiance.

Helen Shepherd, Home Manager at Hayward Care Centre, (pictured above with Paula Williams) said: “We’re delighted to have worked in partnership with Devizes School to create this wonderful event. The artwork currently being exhibited in our home is absolutely fantastic, and it’s wonderful to see the work of both the students and our residents on display together.”

Paula Williams, Head of Art and Design at Devizes School, praised the students' enthusiasm and the success of the evening: “The students have been photographing themselves with their pieces of work and are just so proud to see it being displayed and admired. The whole event has turned out even better than I was hoping for.”

Among the guests was Jennie Britten, Devizes School parent and Mayor of Devizes, who commented: “There’s real talent on display here, both from the pupils and from the residents at Hayward. It’s great to see this cross-generational work taking place, and the younger and older members of our community inspiring each other through their creations.”

David Cooper, Executive Head Teacher, added: “I think this event has been fantastic. I’m delighted with the work the students and teachers have produced, and it’s great so many of them came along to see it in this setting.”

The exhibition not only highlighted artistic talent but also offered moving personal moments. Jacqui, grandmother of pupil Jacob, shared: “I’ve not seen this side of Jacob before – it’s so special and I’m so proud of all he achieves.”

And Malcolm Bryant, a Hayward resident, remarked: “The kids’ work is fantastic, especially seeing how young they all are!”

Darren Bone, Chair of Bishops Cannings Parish Council, said: “The event was another opportunity to strengthen the ties between Hayward and the parish council. The artwork on display was phenomenal.  What struck me immediately was the quality of the work, whether it had been produced by residents, having enjoyed a lifetime of pleasure from art in all its forms, or the precocious talent of the young students from Devizes School, who are still barely teenagers.  It served to demonstrate the invisible yet remarkable link between artists of all ages: that intrinsic mastery they possess to see things in their surroundings and in a way which others of us simply cannot.  Not only that, of course, as they also have the innate skill and deftness of touch to bring that vision - whether real or imagined - to life using a host of different media. What a marvellous legacy and a such vibrant, life-affirming inspiration to us all.”

This collaborative event celebrated creativity, community, and connection—showcasing how art can inspire, engage, and unite people of all ages.