Young Art Oxford sees hundreds of pieces of art on display

Young Art Oxford returned last week, showcasing 640 pieces of artwork from schools across Oxfordshire.

These pieces, created in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity and AT The Bus, an Oxford based charity that uses art as a therapy intervention to support children and young people, went on display at the Ashmolean Museum on May 17 and 18.

Year 2 first prize, created by Beatrice Cicic-Brazil from St Joseph’s in Oxford (Image: Young Art Oxford)

This year, schools presented thousands of pieces of art around the theme of ‘My Future World’.

Works from 35 state and independent schools were judged, with judges selecting the top pieces for display.

There were prizes for first, second, and third places across four different age categories, ranging from reception to Year 9.

Young Art Oxford, established in 2008, has raised more than £150,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital through these annual exhibitions, allowing young artists to have their work showcased in prominent Oxford venues.

The Year 3 first prize, created by Kennedy Wedderman from Carrdus School in Banbury (Image: Young Art Oxford)

Their work is judged by highly respected professionals and artists in the industry.

On this year’s judging panel were Korky Paul, illustrator of the Winnie the Witch series, Dr Sarah Simblet, professor of drawing at The Ruskin Art School, Jo Acty, founder of ArtWorks, and professor Jennifer Sliwka, keeper of Western art at the Ashmolean Museum.

Paula Wallace, chair of Young Art Oxford, said: “We were thrilled to be exhibiting a record number of entries in this year’s competition and see more children than ever show off their artistic talents, all while raising funds for two very deserving charities.

“The quality of pieces submitted has always been fantastic and this year is no exception.

“The exhibition features a wide range of artistic styles and incredible creativity across all age groups, so we’d encourage everyone to visit this and admire the collection.

“We would like to thank The Ashmolean Museum for allowing us to host the event amidst the museum’s rich tapestry of centuries of art history.”

She said it was “inspirational” for the children to see their artwork in “one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks”.

She added: “We’d also like to give special thanks to all our supporters, in particular our principal sponsor Sporn Construction, whose backing makes this event possible each year.”

Funds were raised at the exhibition through entry fees, sales of prints, and donations.

All funds will go towards supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital and AT The Bus, aiding in their efforts to support children and young people.

Attendance was free and the exhibition was open from 10am to 5pm on both days.