Understood the Assignment

RAAD artist and research Jack Lewdjaw gave presented his paper “Understood the Assignment: Day School an Alternative Art School” at the National Association for Fine Art Education conference 2025 held in conjunction with Feral School of Art in Hull on 25 April.

His presentation explored the Day School model—an alternative art school in Bristol where Jack serves as the director. Art outside of institutional structures is, in itself, a form of resistance, challenging traditional hierarchies and opening up new avenues for creative expression. Investing in arts education is not only a social act but a political one, as it challenges regressive narratives and supports the creation of alternative spaces for dialogue and expression. By highlighting this approach, the presentation explored key principles such as peer-led learning, accessibility, diversity, and community. Through a series of illustrations, it also reflected on the highs and lows from the past four years and shared insights from various cohorts of Day School.