CODEX CAMPAIGN
The CODEX Campaign is in development building on our CODEX pilot, inspired by Bob and Roberta Smith. Through new collaborations, working with schools in the South West and being part of the national Art Education conversation, Sidmouth School of Art is working on a new proposal to take CODEX on the Road.
As the CODEX Campaign develops, building on the success of the CODEX Digital and Print SMArt project, and interest from the National Society for Education in Art and Design, an Open Call to creative students and teachers has been launched, inviting 2D artwork responses to Bob & Roberta's Puzzle 4 Sidmouth.
The study of art enables pupils to understand, appreciate and contribute to a dimension of life that taps into and expresses human innovation, imagination and thought. At its best, the subject is both intellectually challenging and creatively demanding.Ofsted Research Review
CODEX Campaign: Expanding the Legacy
Working with CREATE Creative Arts Academy we are building on the success of the first project, the second CODEX has now launched as a regional‑and‑beyond initiative inviting schools from across the South West and nationwide to take part.
We now have 40 schools signed up, representing primary, secondary, post‑16, alternative provision, and community arts settings.
This expanded version of the project is inspired not only by The Thamesmead Codex, but also by Bob & Roberta Smith’s more recent public artwork ‘Puzzle 4 Sidmouth’, created with Sidmouth School of Art for Sidmouth's Wallspace gallery.
C O D E X OPEN CALL
Calling all creative students and teachers from primary, secondary and alternative schools and settings!
We are excited to announce the second iteration of the Codex Project, a collaborative and inspiring opportunity for young people and educators to express their voices through art.
This new Codex invites responses to Bob & Roberta Smith’s (Patrick Brill) thought provoking piece, “Puzzle 4 Sidmouth”,
created in collaboration with the Sidmouth School of Art and displayed on the public art wallspace at The Ham, Sidmouth.
We welcome submissions of any 2D artwork inspired by Bob & Roberta Smith’s distinctive style and message.
Whether you’re working in paint, collage, digital media, drawing, or mixed media— this is your chance to be part of a national conversation through creativity.
Who can take part?
Primary and secondary students
Teachers from all educational settings
What happens to the work?
All submitted responses will be showcased in a large collective exhibition in summer 2026, celebrating the creativity and voices of young people and educators from across the country
How to get involved:
To join the Codex Project, please email Sam Eyre, Head of Creative Arts at Coombeshead Academy, with an expression of interest at: sam.eyre@coombesheadacademy.org.uk
Once registered, you’ll receive a free teacher pack with full details about the project, including guidance, inspiration, and submission information.
Let’s celebrate the power of art to communicate, connect, and challenge. We can’t wait to see your responses!
C O D E X Aims:
Champion Youth Voice A platform to express what matters to young people.
Foster Creativity & Confidence Typography & slogans, exploring art and activism.
Connect and Strengthen the Art-Education Community Building a regional creative network.
Continue a Powerful Artistic Legacy Young people extending their messages & methods into new communities.
Celebrate Public Creativity
Showcase the collective creativity and voices of young people across the UK.
Email Sam Eyre for more information about the CODEX Project, including resources, examples, and updates.
Sam Eyre, Head of Creative Arts at Coombeshead Academy,
Creative Arts Academy
CREATE Creative Arts Academy at Coombeshead Academy In Newton Abbott, Devon, is home to specialist studios and teachers offering learning in an exciting range of creative courses.