Kellie Miller Art Award 2017

Poppy Pearce ; "Bangers"

I had the great honour to host the Kellie Miller Art awards at Varndean College again during their Summer Exhibition.

The five shortlisted A level students, Rowan Tothill, Elsa Money, Poppy Pearce, Gabriel McAlphine and Erin Fairall were all worthy winners.

The art department at Varndean has produced some highly talented young people that it made it almost impossible to choose the winner. I hope they will all continue their practice for many years to come.

I was delighted to present the award to Poppy Pearce.  Poppy’s art showed a maturity, consistency and style beyond her years.  In addition to winning the award I have invited Poppy to exhibit two pieces entitled ‘Stevie’ and ‘Bangers’  which are both portraits of characters from the Hastings fishing community.

Both paintings can be seen at the gallery from 17th June- 26th June 2017. 

Jonathan Smith (L), Kellie Miller (C), Poppy Pearce (R)