What is Art?

Norwich University of the Arts presents the Young Creatives Exhibition at East Gallery, a new initiative supporting and celebrating arts education at a time of national decline in arts funding, participation, and access to creative subjects.

Arts education in UK schools is currently under significant pressure. A 2024 report from the University of Warwick highlights that the UK now ranks among the lowest culture-spending countries in Europe, with arts education experiencing a sustained decline. This trend is reinforced by the Foundations for the Future report, which argues that, despite extensive evidence demonstrating the educational, social, and economic value of the arts, creative subjects continue to be systematically undervalued within England’s state education system.

Working with Year 8 students, the project champions the importance of the arts ahead of GCSE subject choices. Launched as a pilot in 2026 with five partner schools, the exhibition invited students to respond to the theme ‘What is Art?’, encouraging experimentation, discussion, and personal interpretation.

Developed in collaboration with artist and educator Dr Mark Wilsher, the project combines workshops, discussions, and creative activities with the opportunity for all participating students to exhibit work at East Gallery.

Focused on inclusion, creativity, and participation rather than competition, the exhibition aims to build confidence, aspiration, and creative identity among young people. By providing a platform for exploration, expression, and public exhibition, the project demonstrates the transformative role that arts education can play in the lives of young people and the importance of ensuring that creative opportunities remain accessible to all.

Participating schools include:

• City Academy Norwich
• Hewett Academy
• Ormiston Victory Academy
• Sewell Park Academy
• Wayland Academy

Opening Times

Tuesday – Friday, 12pm – 5pm
Saturday, 12pm – 4pm

Exhibition Events

Thursday 9 July, 5-7pm
Exhibition launch event

Join us for the launch of the Young Creatives Exhibition, ‘What is Art?’. All are welcome, no booking required.

Saturday 11 July, 3-4pm
Talk with Dr Mark Wilsher

In the twenty-first century it seems that pretty much anything can be considered an artwork. But how is that decided? Does art need to be serious or meaningful? Does it need to resemble traditional forms or use recognisable media? If the very idea of art itself has changed completely over the last five hundred years, then does it even make sense to ask the question What is Art? Dr Mark Wilsher (Director of the East Anglian Fine Art Study Centre) takes a sociological approach to answering this question.

This event will take place in the gallery, is free to attend and open to all.
Booking is recommended as spaces are limited.

Friday 17 July, 1-3pm
Workshop with Emma Jones, NEACO Higher Education Champion

Inspired by the creative responses of Year 8 students in the gallery, this drop-in workshop invites visitors of all ages to share their own ideas.

Using a selection of simple materials, you can draw, write, collage, or experiment to create your own response to the question, What is Art? There are no right or wrong answers. You can choose to display your work alongside the exhibition or take it home with you. This is a space to play, reflect, and respond in your own way and a chance for your voice to become part of the conversation.

This event is a free drop-in session in the gallery. All ages are welcome to join.