ArtReach celebrates local talent

THE talent of young artists in East Cambridgeshire were celebrated at an awards evening in Ely yesterday (April 26).

The winners of ArtReach 2017 were announced at the ceremony at Kings School, following dozens of entries in four categories.

This year was the second police-led competition, aimed at engaging with young people and showcasing local talent. The theme for the competition was ‘change’.

Daisy Simpson, 9, won the under 10s category for an impressive embroidered cushion. Ella Reed, 13, took the 11-13s title with her colourful work. In the 13-16s Eve Henderson, 16, impressed the judges to win with her emotive piece. Harry Liptrot won the supported learning category with a piece depicting his evolution over time.

The winners all took home prizes including digital slates from competition sponsor Huion and gifts from art retailer Tindalls. Additional prizes were presented to Tim White and Imogen Downs who were commended on their work.

The judges, who also attended the awards evening, were Police and Crime Commissioner Jason Ablewhite, Chief Constable Alec Wood, Deputy District Commander Marcia Pringle, the Mayor of Ely Cllr Ian Lindsay and Professor Jean Michel Massing retired head of the department of Art History at the University of Cambridge.

Chief Constable Alec Wood said: “Congratulations to all of the category winners. It was an honour to be involved in the judging process and we were really impressed with the artwork submitted.

“It’s important we engage with young people and I’m pleased this competition has enabled us to do exactly that, as well as highlighting local talent.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Jason Ablewhite said: “ArtReach is a great way for our local police officers to get closer to young people and to understand what matters to them in their communities. I have been hugely impressed by the standard of creativity this year – judging the winners has not been easy!”

Sergeant Phil Priestley, who was involved in organising the competition, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who helped to make ArtReach a success again this year. That includes event sponsor Huion, who along with Tindalls also provided prizes, the Office of the PCC and Kings School in Ely for hosting the event.”