Joe Bulman - University of Brighton

The awards are now in its 4th year and I am delighted to extend the opportunity to degree level students. The awards now operate on two platforms, pre-degree (A level/foundation/diploma) and graduates.

I will be hosting these awards at several educational organisations, with the view of selecting winning students to exhibit at the gallery from the University of Brighton and Northbrook Metropolitan College. From this, I will curate an exhibition of works from graduates in the gallery. The works selected will have a synergy to what most appeals to me and is in harmony with the gallery’s ethos.

Lucy Fairs - Northbrook Met

I founded the awards in 2015 as I strongly believe in the value of teaching creativity to young people. I want to encourage schools and parents who recognise this fundamental life skill and who endorse this by delivering creativity and art throughout a child’s schooling, starting in early years through to A levels.

I have been so impressed with the talent throughout the awards that, although I initially set out to just select the works of the winners, I just could not overlook the paintings of runner up Ani Grimes at the University of Brighton, mixed media works of Lucy Fairs and runner up Ray Lister’s paintings both at Northbrook Met.

Alastair Farley - University of Brighton

There so many pieces I would have gladly exhibited from many of the students not just those that were shortlisted. Unfortunately, due to limited space I have selected a unique collection that highlights the wealth of local student talent.

I hope you will agree with me when you visit the exhibition.