Student's cathedral-inspired work goes on display

A student who was inspired by a cathedral's ancient library for an art assignment will have his work showcased there.

Charlie Norman, 19, studied art and design for his A-Levels at Abbeygate Sixth Form College in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

For his final assignment, he explored medieval manuscripts and etchings and was able to explore St Edmundsbury Cathedral's collection for his research.

Mr Norman was awarded an A* in August, which he said had driven him to pursue a career in art.

"The chance to have my work exhibited has been incredibly exciting, and it's been a valuable insight into the process of organising an exhibition and collaborating with others," he said.

"Achieving an A* in art at sixth form was a huge milestone for me and it's really driven me to pursue a career in art.

"It's given me the confidence to see that this is the right path, and the exhibition process has been such an eye-opener in terms of what my future could look like."

For Mr Norman's final assignment, he was able to explore the cathedral's collection thanks to the help of the keeper of the library, Stephen Dart.

The student explained this offered him "stylistic guidance" for his project.

He then underwent 15 hours in exam conditions to create a pair of manuscript leaves on the sins of pride and gluttony.

They will now be exhibited in the Treasury at the cathedral in a new exhibition called Inspired in the Ancient Library.

Mr Norman's former teacher at Abbeygate Sixth Form, Louise Gridley, said it was "wonderful" his work was being showcased.

"He is such a diligent student and deserves this recognition - not only on account of his creative and technical realisation but for his historical scrutiny also," she added.

Sarah Friswell, the cathedral's visitor experience manager, added: "We regularly exhibit books from our Ancient Library in the Cathedral Treasury.

"On this occasion it is wonderful to showcase the work of a student who has created his own artwork from these inspirational books."

Mr Norman has gone on to study an art foundation course at West Suffolk College. He aims to become a freelance artist after university.

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