Abbey Park students get artistic for world peace

By Jamie Hill - 20 November 2018

SecondaryCharityArts and CultureCommunity

A Swindon student, Xia Choi, at the Abbey Park School, Redhouse has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognised artist by winning a local competition, sponsored by Swindon Lions Club.

The contestants were all between 11 and 13 years of age on 15th November. At the school there were more than 50 entries. The three judges picked 20 semi-finalists and then the first three. Because of the quality of entries, awards were made to the first four.

Xia’s poster will be among more than 600,000 entries submitted worldwide by the 31st annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions clubs international is sponsoring the contest to emphasise the importance of world peace and kindness to young people everywhere.

The poster was selected by two well-known local artists for its originality, artistic merit and the trail of the contest theme, “Kindness Matters.”

Swindon Lions Club President, Helen Marson said that she was impressed by the expression and creativity of the students at the Abbey Park School. “It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what peace means to them. I’m so proud we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions.”

Xia’s poster will advance to face stiff competition throughout the regional, national and international rounds of the competition.

One grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award for US$5000, plus a trip for the winner and two family members to an award ceremony. The 23 merit award winners will each receive a certificate and a cash award of US$500.

The accompanying photograph shows Xia, together with the runners-up. Second prize went to Nadia Witbooi. There were two equal third contestant winners, Roxanne Rose and Hannah Willcock. All four received cheques from Swindon Lions Club. All semifinalists received certificates of appreciation.

Chairman of the contest, Alan Mitchell said “I am pleased to continue our relationship with Abbey Park School. This is our 7th year working with the school and greatly appreciate the efforts of the Lead Art Teacher, Amandip Sanghera and the other Art Teachers for making this possible, Swindon Lions Club does a lot of work with young people. Anyone who wants more information about Swindon Lions Club should telephone him on (01793) 642898 or contact us through our website or Facebook page.”

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