Eager readers of our website will remember that last term Shuayb (Year Thirteen) was selected as our school finalist for the national ARTiculation competition, run by the Royal Academy to promote public speaking and engagement with visual culture.

On Thursday, 11 January, Shuayb and Mrs Fletcher made their way to the Royal Academy on Piccadilly. Although the day was bitterly cold, the grand surroundings of the Royal Academy on Burlington Gardens welcomed us warmly to the London heat.

After a technical run-through, we were welcomed by the staff of the Royal Academy. Students from all participating schools gave fascinating presentations on works of art, ranging from Ophelia by Sir John Edward Millas to the installation Beyond the Red Moon by El Anatsui. Shuayb’s presentation on The Two Fridas by Frida Kahlo was compelling; expertly delivered from Shuayb’s perspective as “Trini, treeclimber, mathematician, poet”, he explored the ways in which the self-portrait explored Frida Kahlo’s dual identity. The audience was captivated by Shuayb, whose confidence and aplomb meant that he engaged every person in the room.

The judge, Humphrey Ocean RA, asked Shuayb whether he would write a poem about the painting; Shuayb’s considered answer was that he wouldn’t write a poem about this painting, but would write a poem about his own identities inspired by the painting. It was very heartening to see this multi-disciplinary confidence from Shuayb.

At the conclusion of the afternoon, the winner was announced. Sadly, it wasn’t Shuayb’s day—the field was so strong that any of the competitors could have been chosen. Humphrey Ocean remarked that he was “in the presence of Olympians”, such was the talent on show.

Perhaps you have been inspired by Shuayb’s experience to enter ARTiculation next year! Start thinking now about what you would like to speak on—painting, architecture, conceptual art, design—all are worthy subjects for this very enriching venture.