Highland pupil takes third place in the John Byrne National Drawing Competition

Issued by Education Scotland

Astrid Fraser, a primary 7 pupil at Avoch Primary School, has been awarded third prize in this year’s John Byrne National Drawing Competition.

The renowned artist and playwright, John Byrne, revealed Seonaid Best from Inverkeithing High School in Fife as the overall winner of the competition. Second place was awarded to Zak Wilkie from Parkhill Secondary School in Glasgow.

Thousands of budding young artists from across Scotland took part in this year’s John Byrne National Drawing Competition, which is run in partnership with Education Scotland and open to pupils from primary four through to third year.

John Byrne said: “The talent this year has once again been outstanding, making my job as a judge very difficult.

“I’m delighted to have awarded Astrid third place. Her artwork caught my eye during the judging process and I was really impressed by the  sensitive drawing and lovely composition in her portrait.

“I’m encouraged by the standard of all the artwork submitted and I hope pupils across Scotland will continue to harness their artistic skills and love for drawing.”

The award ceremony took place at Paisley Museum and Art Gallery, where a special exhibition of competition entries are on display until Sunday 29 April.

John and the judges selected 30 young artists as runners up and they each received a certificate specially designed by John. A number of Highland pupils were among those to be recognised for their work:

•  Rowan Urquhart, primary 5 pupil, Lochardil Primary School
•  Ryan Merry, primary 6 pupil, Miller Academy Primary School
•  Aleksandra Wilkowska, first year pupil, Inverness High School

Gayle Gorman, Education Scotland Chief Executive said: “As we celebrate the Year of Young People, I’m delighted that such a large number of pupils took part in the drawing competition.

“Education Scotland is delighted to be involved in the competition as it offers pupils, across Scotland, the opportunity to showcase their drawing skills and creativity. Congratulations to all the winners and those who took part.”

John was assisted by Ron Cowie, Senior Education Officer at Education Scotland, Lorna MacDonald, City of Edinburgh Council, Fiona McGregor, University of Glasgow, Steve Willing, a former peripatetic teacher of art and design and Wilma Eaton, University of Strathclyde, to judge the competition which took place at the University of Strathclyde.