We are delighted to celebrate the fantastic achievement of two of our Art Scholars, Amelie (Year 12) and Eva (Year 9), who have both been shortlisted for the John Downton Awards for Young Artists.

The John Downton Awards are a nationally recognised competition that celebrates exceptional skill and creativity in drawing and painting by young people. Each year, only a small number of works are shortlisted, making this a significant achievement and a real testament to pupils’ dedication, technical ability and artistic ambition.

Amelie has been shortlisted for her drawing ‘Face’, a highly detailed and realistic study focusing on half of a human face. Her work demonstrates impressive control of tone and shading, creating lifelike textures in the skin and hair. Amelie has used the grid method with great precision to achieve accurate proportions, resulting in a refined and confident piece. Amelie joined Bethany in Year 12 and she is studying both Art and Photography and has impressed us with her dedication, talent and curiosity for learning.

Eva’s shortlisted work, ‘Olivia Dean’, is inspired by one of her favourite musicians. Using carbon paper to establish the initial outlines, Eva then developed the piece with inks to create a striking effect. Working on wood has added a natural quality to the portrait, enhancing both the texture and overall impact of the artwork. Eva is currently in Year 9 and has shown real maturity in her artwork and is an exciting young artist to watch out for!

The shortlisted works will be exhibited as part of the John Downton Awards exhibition, where the winners will be announced at a special awards evening in February. Having work displayed in this exhibition is a huge honour and an exciting opportunity for both pupils.

The public exhibition of the shortlisted artwork is open and available for everyone to enjoy from 26 January to 20 February 2026.

You can visit the public gallery in County Hall to view the wonderful artwork. The works from the 11-16 age group can also be viewed online here.

Public Gallery: County Hall Maidstone ME14 1XQ

Congratulations to Amelie and Eva on this outstanding success, we are incredibly proud of them and look forward to following their artistic journeys.

Mrs Smart

Head of Art