The winners of St Albans Rainbow Trail’s Black History Month competition have been announced.
The creative competition gave entrants the chance to celebrate black pioneers, leaders, artists and inventors.
Preet Cox, the founder of St Albans Rainbow Trail, said: “It’s been inspirational to see that schools and students were involved, and that both adults and children took part.
“Entrants researched about black history and a fascinating personal story led to the creation of a winning piece of artwork. So much passion and effort has been shown by all the entrants through their artwork inspiring us all and allowing us to further learn more about black history.”
Four pieces of work were crowned winners of the competition, by Daragh Griffin, Jenny Satchell, Oscar Dalmedo and Alisha Ardeshna.
Daragh’s entry was selected by Carmen Richards of Carmen’s Caribbean Kicthen. His football piece honoured Viv Anderson and paved the way for other black footballers, and how racism on the pitch is prominent today.
Carmen said: “I have chosen this picture which depicts our special black footballers. All these players have had to endure a backlash of racism throughout the years - lets make it stop.”
A portrait of the ‘African Blondin’ by Jenny Satchell was also among the winning entries. Jenny’s great grandfather Carlos Trower was known as ‘The African Blondin’, one of the world’s greatest ever high-rope walkers.
Aisha Adi, the judge who selected Jenny’s piece, said: “This is a lovely detailed piece of artwork. I really enjoyed seeing it and I love how you have thought about light and dark shadows in his face.”
Oscar Dalmedo from How Wood School was also picked as a winner with his artwork inspired by Turner Prize-winning artist.
It was selected by Chris Blanch who said: “I thought there was an exciting range of mark making, pattern and abstract shapes in this artwork. I also like the use of appropriate words sandwiched between the lines and the artist had taken a considerable amount of effort and time to produce the finished result.”
The final winning entry was submitted by Alisha Ardeshna from Sandringham School. Her drawing of Nelson Mandela was selected by Preet who added: “This is an impressive, powerful portrait.
“Mandela set an example of dedication, courage, and sacrifice for all and I feel this artwork conveys this beautifully. Well done Alisha!”
Preet thanked the judges for their involvement, alongside Liz Somers from Quarto Kids and Emma Bustamante from Cositas St Albans, who provided prizes for the winners.
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