Christie’s Auction House Experience

As part of the Harris Experience, a group of Year 9 students headed to Christie’s Auction House in St James’, Central London, the world's oldest fine art auctioneer – seller of fine art, furniture, jewellery, wine and even James Bond’s Aston Martin car from the Skyfall film.

Groups of students from different Harris Academies were welcomed into the auction house to learn how an auction house operates and the different roles, careers and opportunities available to young people should they wish to pursue a career within the industry.

The students actively engaged in the process of bidding on items and extended their knowledge on the provenance of fine art and auction pieces.

To consolidate their learning, groups created a diorama (a mini set), choosing a theme and styles of art which they eloquently and confidently presented to the room.

Harris Academy Peckham students produced a gallery on the theme of ‘Restoration’ – celebrating broken pieces of art by restoring them with silver and gold & ‘Culture and People’ – celebrating diversity and bringing cultures together.

The students had an amazing day and were also able to take in the sights of London on the journey there, including seeing the latest guerilla art sculpture by Banksy at Waterloo Place and watching a rehearsal for Trooping the Colour – the King’s birthday parade!

Students created a diorama (a mini set), choosing a theme and styles of art of their choice, which they then presented to others.