Research Excellence in Art and Design

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Congratulations to Dr Jon Lockhart, art teacher at The Abbey School, who was awarded a Doctorate this month for his PhD titled Widening Participation (WP) in Art Education: How Do Novel Approaches and Alternative Spaces Increase Engagement in Children and Young Adults?

Supported by the WP facility ArtLab at The University of Reading, this practice-based research investigated how innovative teaching methods and non-traditional spaces can inspire children and young adults aged 8–18 to engage with the arts despite systemic challenges. His PhD exhibition underlined in tangible form, the critical need for creative skills developed through art education, which contribute significantly to diverse industries.

Noting the level at which this practice has been documented, and presented, the examiners were impressed by the works impact in the context of ‘gatekeeping and power distribution in neoliberal education, and the desire for this work to destabilise existing practices to broker more democratic practices.’ In particular, Dr Lockhart’s work with ArtLab and in his own art practice, was commended for how its ‘sustained practice addresses ideas of visibility, participation, engagement through widening participation and socially engaged art education.

The practice is thoughtful, ethically motivated, and a determined effort to institute more equitable and responsive methods.’ We thank Dr Jon Lockhart for his deep commitment, unfaltering work ethic, and actions in deeds and thinking to the ideas and future success of the young people to which his research is so committed.

Assoc Prof. Tina O’Connell, The University of Reading

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