Art competition lights up Cannock school

Hosted by Cannock’s Chase Grammar School, more than 180 pieces of work were judged by local artist Jeremy Bournon – former head of art at Repton School.

The competition has 10 categories, such as sketching, textiles, 2D and 3D art, and is additionally divided based on age group.

In all, 37 students from across the region have progressed to the national finals which takes place next month in Coventry.

Paul Silverwood, Principal at Chase Grammar School, said: “Art has no boundaries.

"It’s an important channel for our pupils to explore alongside their academic studies, as a means to show expression and discover their individuality.

“The calibre of work that we saw from schools across the region was a testament to both hard work and astonishing creative talent.

" It was a pleasure to host this competition and huge congratulations to all pupils across the region who have progressed to the final.”

Judge Jeremey Bournon, said: “To find pupils with so much talent at such a young age is extremely exciting.

"The pupils have clearly engaged their imaginations and that creative quality shines through in their work.

"What’s particularly encouraging for somebody who has been in the profession for so many years, is that the variety of work produced in schools continues to grow and develop.

“Pupils now have full access to a range of materials that have previously been unavailable, such as ceramic, textiles and mixed media.

"It’s so important that pupils from a young age are being taught how to use these different types of art and materials and they’re using them to freely express themselves.”

Chase Grammar School also announced the winners of its own inter-house art competition, which presented the very best artwork from age ranges across the school.

One of the winners included year 7 pupil, Sofia Abel-Lawson, who painted an abstract post-apocalyptic sunset.