Princess Helena College, the independent day and boarding school for girls in Preston, near Hitchin, held its first 
Art Festival this month.
The festival was a celebration of the work of 30 local artists, alongside pupils' work. The festival was launched with an artist workshop, run by Hitchin artist, Keith Hornblower, a specialist in watercolours.
He demonstrated techniques and taught girls from Year 7 to Sixth Form about observing still-life, along with working with acrylic and canvas. They developed their artistic and visual skills, producing beautiful observed canvases of a spring flower arrangement.
Jessica Hepplethwaite, Year 7, said "I found the workshop very inspiring. It was great to be able to see how a professional artist works and I really enjoyed learning new skills".
On Friday 15 March, the main event began with a private view and auction of selected pieces. This was a fantastic evening, attended by the artists themselves, parents, staff and local guests.
The festival was then opened to the public on Saturday, with over 300 visitors enjoying the artwork. 170 pieces were 
available for sale, including traditional and contemporary paintings, ceramics, sculptures and photographs.
The artists exhibiting included Kim Major George, Cathy Smale, Helen Dodds, Jean Picton, Keith Hornblower and James Willis.
Kim Major George, whose work sold out during the festival, said "I was delighted to be invited to the first Princess Helena College Art Exhibition. This well organised exhibition set in beautiful Georgian rooms of the PHC building had a great buzz, fuelled mainly by the enthusiasm of the visitors and staff towards the collective mix of art on display."
Over £12,500 worth of art was sold during the event, raising nearly £4,500 for the Parents Fundraising Committee and Courtyard Arts and Community Centre in Hertford. Jo-Anne Duncan, Headmistress, commented, "the first PHC Art Festival was a huge success and it was lovely to see the school showcasing such a variety of work from local artists."
