We are delighted to share that Nelly, a Year 8 Art Scholar at Bethany, has been awarded the Maidstone Young Artist Award for 2024 in the 14 years old and younger category.

Not only is this a fantastic achievement that she can add to her portfolio and future CV, she also received a cash prize and has her work on display at the Maidstone Museum from now until June 1st 2024.

Nelly’s piece, entitled ‘Freedom’ was created using Fine liner pen on paper. She wrote the following about what inspired her:

“Butterflies were the first thing I thought of as soon as I saw the theme of metamorphosis. My great Grandma passed away this year and her favourite thing was butterflies, so I knew I had to enter the competition for her. I like fine liners because they are delicate, like butterflies. I kept to all black and white so you can see all the detail. I made the last butterfly really big so you see this first, as it is beautiful and shows being set free. I hope you like it.”

The judges had a very hard time making their decisions and took an hour and a half deliberating on the winners. She received the following feedback from the judges:

‘Intricate and well thought out composition – a real statement piece.’

‘Clearly shows metamorphosis – beautifully executed.’

‘Nice, careful work with a very thoughtful sentiment.’

Although Graham Clarke was unable to be there on the night, he did do his judging and send us his comments remotely.

“It was a great honour to be invited to be one of the judges of Maidstone Young Artist Award 2024. I am no art critic and find it very difficult to criticize or judge the merits of other artists work so this was not an easy task. It was especially hard as all the young people who took part have created works of such a high standard. The secret of success is hard work… so keep at it. Congratulations to all the winners and very well done to all those who took part.”

We would like to congratulate Nelly on this outstanding achievement and wish her luck as she continues to enter her work for prestigious competitions.