Tenth ‘paper costume’ show at KGS helps ‘rustle’ in the Island Games

Third year Art and Design pupils from KGS showcased winning designs on Wednesday (12 Feb 2025), during the tenth annual Paper Costume show - with this year’s theme of course being the Island Games!

In a grueling race against time, and armed only with paper, staples, masking tape and glue, the pupils have been working in small groups on their costumes since the start of term.

Pitted against the perils of twisted tape, they’ve used teamwork, time management and collaborative skills to cross the finish line - while flexing their creativity to transform paper into 3D designs to fit the human form.

The pupils modelled their costumes themselves on a runway in front of an audience of S1, 2 and 3 pupils, with support for the different ‘teams’ measured by a volume-driven clapper board.

The parade is a keenly anticipated part of the school calendar, traditionally held on the last day before mid term break and expertly compared by English teacher Iain MacLean.

Principle Teacher of Art & Design, Nichola Watson, said “It’s always great fun, and for our Art and Design pupils they get to experience the buzz and hard work of getting ready for a big show - and the huge sense of accomplishment it brings when it all comes together.”

Past years’ themes have included the architecture of Kirkwall, Flight, Blue Planet, Kings and Queens and Coronations, Space, and Chinese New Year.

It’s hoped this years’ costumes will be exhibited to the public at KGS during the Island Games. 

Check out more photos of the event on the BBC Radio Orkney Facebook page.