SCHOOLS are to exhibit contemporary paintings, sculptures and crafts through a project aimed at increasing opportunities for young people to be inspired high-quality visual arts.
World-renowned sculptor Brendan Jamison launched the Art Lending Scheme for Schools.
It offers schools the opportunity to exhibit works from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland's contemporary art collection, which holds more than 500 works by established and emerging visual artists working in Northern Ireland.
Belfast Model School for Girls, St Cecilia's College in Derry and Malone Integrated College and Mercy College, both in Belfast are taking part.
Mr Jamison said the aim was "to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers at a pivotal point in their education, helping to expand the minds of young people and encourage teenagers to dream of ambitious futures where they can bring creative magic to all aspects of society".
Dr Suzanne Lyle, Head of Visual Arts with the Arts Council said many whose works were included in the collection have major national and international reputations.
They include two-time Turner Prize nominee, Willie Doherty and Colin Davidson, who painted the Queen's portrait in 2016.
"By offering the collection for public display in schools, we are helping to showcase the work of our artists and to introduce the public to Northern Ireland's wealth of creative talent," she said.
"Schools are welcome to curate their own show or the Arts Council's expert staff can help compile and theme an exhibition suitable for any space. We can provide works in all media, from painting, sculpture, crafts, print, photography and video through to digital art."
:: Interested schools can visit www.artscouncil-ni.org for further information or call 028 9262 3555.
