Nearly a thousand visitors attended the annual Art Society Huntingdonshire Young Artists Competition (ASHYAC) exhibition, at Sawtry Village Academy (SVA), part of Meridian Trust, on Saturday 1st March 2025.
The ASHYAC celebrates the exceptional artistic talents of young students from early years through to sixth form across Huntingdonshire. This year, 41 schools participated, showcasing an impressive 278 pieces of artwork. The standard was remarkably high, with many pieces demonstrating technical content beyond expectations for their age group. Some students even produced work comparable to that of more experienced artists.
Kevin Terry Subject Lead for Art at SVA, was thrilled with the event’s strong turnout. “There was a steady flow of visitors throughout the day, starting from 10am while we were setting up. As we approached the prize presentation at 3pm, the exhibition was bustling, with cars parked all the way down the street.”
Parents and attendees were equally impressed by the exhibition. Amanda Jakins, a parent in attendance, shared, “The display of inspiring artwork from students of all ages was incredible. The artwork was truly beautiful.”
The awards were presented by Peterborough artist Tony Nero, former Sawtry student Melissa Lopez, and Sawtry Village Academy Principal Simon Parsons.
The winners for each age group were:
Competition Winners:
• Early Years: Trinity D, Cottenham Primary School
• Key Stage 1: Aariyan A, Thorndown Primary School, St Ives
• Key Stage 2 (Years 3 & 4): Zachary M, Crosshall Junior School, Eaton Ford
• Key Stage 2 (Years 5 & 6): Tobias P, Jeavons Wood Primary School, Cambourne
• Key Stage 3 (Year 7): Georgie C, Ernulf Academy, Eynesbury
• Key Stage 3 (Year 8): Oscar M, Kimbolton School
• Key Stage 3 (Year 9): Zoe G, Sawtry Village Academy
• Key Stage 4: Diya K, St Ivo Academy, St Ives
• Key Stage 5: Indigo K, Impington Village College
Additional prizes were awarded for excellence in drawing and photography across different age groups, while 16 students received “Highly Commended” certificates for their outstanding work.
Rosemary Huckle, Young Arts Secretary for the organisers, emphasised the significance of art education. “It was wonderful to hear Mr. Parsons highlight the importance of art teaching in creating a broad education for children. It is so important to facilitate creativity.”
Simon Parsons expressed his admiration for the students’ talent, stating, “It was an honour to present awards to these incredible young artists. The creativity and passion demonstrated by every participant, from Early Years to Sixth Form, was truly inspiring. Each student should be exceptionally proud of their achievements.”
The event’s overwhelming success highlights the importance of nurturing creativity in young artists and the importance of celebrating their achievements.
