Devon’s countryside charity begins its 2023 search for young artists
The Devon branch of the countryside charity CPRE is looking for budding young artists who can capture the beauty and variety of the county’s natural landscapes, from its wild moorlands to its sheltered river valleys.
Young artists aged 18 and under have until the end of September to submit a painting, drawing, textile, collage, or mixed media artwork of a Devon view to win the coveted title of Devon’s Best Young Landscape Artist 2023. The landscape could be a favourite beach or beauty spot, a local park or green space, somewhere visited on a day out or even the artist’s back garden.
There are cash prizes for the winner of each category, and the best entries will go on exhibition at the Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton.
Devon CPRE launched the competition two years ago with the support of Exeter-based landscape artist Kath Hadden, who helps choose the prize winners alongside the charity’s Director, Penny Mills. The two judges have consistently been impressed with the immense talent of the county’s young artists. They hope to receive as many original submissions as they have in previous years depicting Devon’s stunning countryside and coastline.
Last year two Dartmoor scenes were chosen as the winning entries: 15-year-old Angelie Pickett’s accomplished painting of Ugborough stood out in the older age group, and a vibrant painting of Belstone River by 11-year-old Sophia Lopez Clarkson won in the younger age group.
Devon CPRE Director Penny Mills says, “Kath and I really enjoy looking through all the artwork, and we are always amazed by the talent of the children and teenagers who enter. We love their depictions of Devon’s coast and countryside, and we look forward to seeing what 2023 will bring. No doubt, we will again have our work cut out deciding on this year’s winners.”
The competition is simple to enter, with a cash prize of £100 for the winner of each age category. Full details of how to enter are on the Devon CPRE website. The closing date for submissions is Saturday, 30 September 2023.
