Tuesday 15th February 2011 - Published by Kelly Jackson - Communications Executive
Esher Schoolboy Wins National Sculpture Competition
A creative 10-year old from Esher has been singled out as one of the most talented young sculptors in the country, in a national competition organised by the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery.
Thomas Powell, from Claygate, received top honours in the Saatchi Gallery Sculpture at School competition, beating over 1500 others with his artwork entitled "Slippery Toves and Borogoves".
Thomas was named the overall winner of the competition, in a grand presentation ceremony held at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery in London. He receives a prize of £250, along with £1000 for art and computer equipment for his school, presented by award-winning artist Tessa Farmer.
The Saatchi Gallery Sculpture at School Prize was launched in 2009 and is open to primary, secondary and sixth form schools around the world. Over 1500 entries are submitted each year, with finalists chosen by a judging panel made of professional artists Tessa Farmer, Jonathan Baldock and Anthea Hamilton.
The competition is part of the Saatchi Gallery's education programme, which is committed to introducing contemporary art to younger audiences.
Thomas entered the competition last spring, along with other pupils from Milbourne Lodge School, in Arbrook Lane, Esher. The pupils designed and constructed their own sculptures based on the competition theme "Through the Looking Glass".
Thomas, and fellow Milbourne Lodge pupil Olivia Andrews were shortlisted for the top prize along with twelve other finalists of varying ages from schools across the country.
When asked about his sculpture, Thomas explains: “I’m really happy to have won. 'Slithy Toves and Borogoves' is a line from the "Jabberwocky" poem written by Lewis Carroll in the "Through the Looking Glass" book. The Toves and Borogoves are creatures, which I have modelled in Blu-Tak. They live under a sun dial, which I made from a paper plate, a kitchen grater and a mirror."
Tiggy Bawden, Head of Art at Milbourne Lodge School, said: “We are thrilled to have had two finalists in such a prestigious competition and we’re so proud of Thomas for being named the overall winner, especially as he was up against an incredibly high standard of entries from children of all ages.”
Thomas Powell (10), with his winning sculpture
