Four Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma students from Art & Design, Graphics and Photography at Southport College have been awarded a place to showcase their artwork as part of the Sefton Open Exhibition at The Atkinson art gallery in Southport.

The talented artists were announced winners of the Sefton Art Student Competition at The Atkinson, an annual art competition open to all schools and colleges across Sefton.

Winners from each category are invited to display their work as part of the Sefton Open, a large vibrant exhibition that showcases talent from across Sefton.

Curriculum Leader for Art & Design, Kelly Broughton, said, “This is the first time we have entered the Sefton Open. We were able to submit 10 pieces of work from across the departments including Art, Graphics and Photography, so we are all incredibly pleased that four of our students were awarded.

“Partaking in live projects is a real strength of our curriculum and it was good to see our students supported at the awards evening by staff and peers.”

Southport College students received a trio of awards in the Fine Art category. Level 3 BTEC Art and Design student Tom Fisher took first place, with commendations being awarded to Evija Jonuska (Level 3 BTEC Art & Design) and Andrew Davies (Level 3 BTEC Graphics).

Former Christ the King student, Tom Fisher, said, “I’m really pleased to have won first prize in the Fine Art category for my drawing. I’m hoping to study Drawing at University in the future.”

The students were invited to receive their prizes at the preview of the Sefton Open, before the gallery opened its doors to hundreds of visitors at the launch of the exhibition on 1st April.

Lottie Irwin, who studies a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Photography, was awarded second place in the Photography category. The aspiring Photographer from Southport, said, “I am thrilled to have received second place for my studio photography and have my work showcased in a professional gallery.”

The Southport College Art Department has a history of progressing students on to top courses at renowned Universities. Previous students have progressed on to study degrees in Illustration, Animation, Graphic Design, Fine Art, Special FX, Concept Art, Surface Pattern, Photography, Textiles, Fashion and Interior Design at prestigious destinations such as Central Saint Martins in London, Leeds College of Art, Brighton University and Oxford University.

Many students from Southport and further afield choose to continue their art studies in Southport by completing a Foundation Diploma in Art at Southport College.