Three Aberdeenshire primary pupils’ artistic talents have been recognised in a prestigious national drawing competition.
Thousands of budding young artists from across Scotland took part in the third John Byrne Competition, which is run in partnership with Education Scotland and open to pupils from primary four through to third year.
Charlotte Stewart from The Gordon Schools in Huntly was awarded the third prize and receives an original print by the renowned artist and playwright to keep.
Judges selected 30 young artists as runners up and they all receive a unique John Byrne-designed certificate.
Scout Knight, also from The Gordon Schools and Kinga Chodorek from Slains School, Ellon were among those recognised for their work.
The award ceremony took place at the Paisley Museum last week where a special exhibition of competition entries will be displayed until Easter.
Mr Byrne praised the girl’s creativity at the event and said: “The talent this year has been outstanding which made my job as a judge very difficult in choosing the overall winners.
“I’m pleased to award Charlotte third place. Her effort and creativity really stood out during the judging process.”
“I’m encouraged by the standard of all the artwork submitted in this year’s competition; the outstanding talent has been remarkable. I hope pupils across Scotland will continue to harness their artistic skills and love for drawing.”
Visiting art teacher for The Gordon schools, Hamish Baird, is thrilled that his pupils’ talents have been recognised and said: “I’m very, very impressed that the girls got awards.
“Drawing is such a great skill to teach youngsters. They all enjoy drawing and it’s something that should be back on the curriculum.
“The prize for coming third is quite special – – it’s so much better than the school just getting vouchers or some such.”
Deputy head teacher at the Gordon’s school, Jill Moir, added: “The trip to Glasgow really emphasised to the girls what an achievement they had made -on a national level. They are absolutely delighted with themselves, it’s such a huge accomplishment.”
All the winning entries can be seen at the Paisley Museum until Tuesday, April 18.
