Canvassing for artists
THE island's artists have been encouraged to enter a prestigious competition. Two Fox Open Art competition representatives visited Alderney last week to promote the annual event, which carries a first prize of £1,000 and is open to every professional and amateur artist in the Channel Islands.
THE island's artists have been encouraged to enter a prestigious competition. Two Fox Open Art competition representatives visited Alderney last week to promote the annual event, which carries a first prize of £1,000 and is open to every professional and amateur artist in the Channel Islands.
Alderney's Paddy Campbell came second in the competition last year and exhibitions sub-committee chairman Mark Blanchard hopes that success will encourage more artists from the northern isle to take part.
Speaking at The Old Barn, which doubles up as a restaurant and art gallery, Mark said: 'Hopefully people in Alderney will recognise what Paddy has achieved and give the competition their best shot.
'We're sure there's plenty of talented artists out there and we believe this is the perfect chance for them to showcase what they're capable of.'
London-based painter Jane Human, who has worked as an illustrator and artist with several design agencies and publishers, will judge this year's competition.
Mark detailed the judging process during his talk.
'To avoid any bias and to retain integrity, a new judge is chosen each year who lives and works outside the Channel Islands,' he said.
'Also, the judges are only shown the pieces of work which are entered into the competition: they don't find out the names of the artists until all the winners and runners-up are picked.'
Entries can be submitted until 28 August. Judging will take place at Jersey Arts Centre on 6 September.
The entries will be exhibited in Jersey until 11 October before they are transferred to Guernsey.
Allan Paton, proprietor of The Old Barn, is hoping a third exhibition will then be held in Alderney.
'It would be a real coup for the island because this is a really prestigious competition.'
He believes the Fox Open Art committee will be encouraged to bring the exhibition to Alderney if a number of islanders submit entries.
'The more people from Alderney get involved, the better,' said Allan.
The winning artist will pocket £1,000, while second place will take home £500. A prize of £250 will also be awarded to the best entry from anyone aged 18 or under.
Entry forms are available from The Old Barn or by calling Alison Page-Brown on 01534 700423.
Zimbabwean group Black Umfolosi 5 made a song and dance when it put on a special performance for schoolchildren.The popular entertainers got pupils and teachers up on their feet during the show, which ended in a rapturous reception.
Head teacher Mike Gaunt said: 'They wowed the whole school, including some welcome visitors from Ormer House, with their unique style of entertainment.
'Their Gumboot dance was especially popular among the students, who laughed and cheered when the teachers were dragged on stage.
'Thanks go to the Alderney Music Society for organising the performance.'
