Published on: 22 September 2022
Our Summer ‘Looking forwards’ arts and crafts competition was launched in May and was open to service users, cares, Trust members, Trust staff, partner organisations and the voluntary sector. The aim was for people to share their hopes for the future now that many of the restrictions related to COVID-19 have been eased – and at the same time help raise awareness of our services and challenge health stigmas.
The entries were judged by Marie Hickman, our Library and Knowledge Manager and staff governor; Noel O’Sullivan, a volunteer, expert by experience and member of the Trust’s Equal Forum; and Kate Smith, an award-winning illustrator and volunteer.
The nine finalists were invited to the Trust’s Annual Members Meeting, yesterday, 21 September and the winners were announced as follows:
First prize – Celia Brookes for her watercolour ‘Jumping for Joy’
The judges said ‘This painting is full of movement and vibrancy. It depicts joy and a sense of leaping into a brighter future.’
Second prize – Janina Finch for her collage ‘Finally going to the beach’.
Of Janina’s entry, the judges said ‘What a fun and happy image, it made us all smile. We wanted to visit the scene and paddle in the sea – it is so tempting as it sparkles and shimmers. This was something we are all looking forward to – going on holiday and swimming in the sea.’
Third prize – Tom Porritt for his painting ‘Together’.
The judges said of Tom’s picture ‘The sentiment behind this drawing rang true with us all. The words ‘together’ written in different languages are really inclusive. The image of the woman looking thoughtful and pensive is beautiful. She is looking up at the light as if she is looking towards a brighter future’.
The following people were awarded Highly Commended:
Amber Bullock for her collage ‘No More Masks’
The judges said “This picture sums up what many people were thinking as we came out of COVID and felt freer without our masks and able to breathe again.”
Shealeigh Clarke for her picture ‘Moving Forwards’.
The judges said “This is a really symbolic picture of coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, showing the artist’s recovery journey and being able to move forwards.”
Denise Dell for her painting ‘Looking forwards to a clearer dawn’.
The judges said “The title of this painting sums this image up. Of moving forwards on a winding path towards the sun – evoking a more positive future.”
Margaret Foulkes for her pencil drawing ‘Wherever we go’.
The judges said “The bright colours are lovely and evoke such happy feelings. The waterway leads towards the cornfields. It reminds us of the spring time and new beginnings.”
Amanda Lord for her felted picture ‘New beginnings’.
The judges said “The technique of this felted picture really impressed us. The technical ability and use of the medium and colours are fantastic. The image also evokes such a positive feeling of dancing and being free.”
Tracie Mason for her sculpture ‘Mother Nature’s Angel’ the judges said:
“This was the most discussed entry as the judges had contrasting views. It is a thought provoking and beautiful sculpture. It is so intricate, each angle brought out different emotions.”
The winners and highly commended were awarded with certificates and arts and crafts materials.
Thank you to everyone who took part in the competition – it was a privilege to see all your wonderful art and craft work. All entries can be viewed on the Trust website.
