Art and design students at a college have been exhibiting and selling their work celebrating Black History Month at Watford Market.

West Herts College has been provided with free use of a unit within the indoor market in October, allowing students to show off their work to the community.

Their first exhibition last week (19-22 October) celebrated Black History Month, with a postcard exhibition celebrating figures, movements, popular culture, film, music, art and events – past and present.

The original postcard artworks raised money for the Watford African Caribbean Association to support their youth club, Thrive, to help and support the town’s young black community.

Watford Observer: The exhibition at Watford Market The exhibition at Watford Market

Naomi, a Level 3 Fine Art Student at West Herts College, said: “This project allows awareness to be raised for Black History Month which is incredibly important, as it celebrates people from African and Caribbean backgrounds whom have been an essential part of British history.

“Having the opportunity to showcase my work in an exhibition is an achievement. Also knowing that it can help other people, by the money going to charity, is another positive outcome from it.”

Freya, also a Level 3 Fine Art Student at West Herts College, added: “Creating art for Black History Month helps celebrate the history of important people and events in a positive way.

Watford Observer: Some of the artwork at the exhibition Some of the artwork at the exhibition

“I'm glad that I can show my work in an exhibition and have been able to make work that will contribute to a charity.”

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “When students start new projects it can be difficult for them to secure funding, especially to afford a lease for a shop to showcase their work. This great opportunity will provide those who learn at West Herts College the chance to start small and grow.

“It will also allow them to interact and build a network of customers, to gain genuine feedback and learn which products sell. It is also wonderful that their first exhibition focused on Black History Month, to honour the accomplishments of Black Britons in every area of endeavour throughout our history, by creating original artworks.”