St James' Alumni Exhibition Showcase
We welcomed our art Alumni back to St James’ for a special showcase celebrating the wonderful artwork they have produced since leaving the school. It was inspiring to see the diverse range of creative journeys our former pupils have taken, and to share their achievements with our current students. A thank you to the Art Department for organising such a memorable occasion as well as to the former members of the Art department for their support.
We, the alumni artists of St James Catholic High School, extend our deepest gratitude for the privilege of having been taught by Mrs. Orly Smetana. Her vision, dedication, and encouragement shaped the foundations of our creative journeys. She nurtured curiosity, instilled the courage to experiment, and reminded us that art is a non-verbal universal language—open to interpretation, dialogue, and discovery. Through her guidance, she fostered a community of makers who continue to carry forward the values of exploration and expression she so generously imparted.
Mrs. Smetana challenged each of us to strive for our best. When asked what she hoped for beyond teaching, she would reply: “To have a gallery of all my students’ works.” After retiring as Head of the Art Department, she pursued her own path of study, completing an MA in Fine Art at UAL Central Saint Martins.
Reflecting on this chapter, she wrote:
“I learned anew what I already knew—that ideas need space, not deadlines. Creativity is slow. Art is not a privilege, it’s not for sale, it’s not a gift. It is a language that everyone speaks. Universal, fundamental, mental. A right, never wrong, for everyone, right now.”
— O. Smetana, 2025
Her transition from teaching to her own practice inspired the vision of a space where learning and creating could coexist. From this dream, the OSM Collective was born. This debut exhibition, returning to where it all began, marks the first step in a new movement. Though her aim is to step back and let her former students shine, we acknowledge with heartfelt appreciation the legacy that has brought us together—and continues to guide us forward.
The OSM Collective extends immense gratitude to St James Catholic High School for letting us reunite on school property for our first ever debut show. We would like to extend our thanks to all members of staff who have helped this ideal come to fruition, especially, Mr McGovern and Wendy who have worked really hard to make this all possible. - OSM Collective
