As the Executive Manager of Marketing at Angostura, I am proud to share the success of our first Secondary Schools’ Art Competition, “The Art In Us,” which culminated in a prize-giving ceremony on June 30 at the House of Angostura. This event was a celebration of the boundless creativity and artistic brilliance of young talents across Trinidad & Tobago.
Encouraging Artistic Expression
The competition invited students from Forms 1 to 6 to submit original pieces of art based on the theme, “My Community.” We received submissions in various mediums, including drawing, painting, digital art, collage, and mixed media, from schools across the nation, including Toco, Rio Claro, Point Fortin, Penal, Marabella, Couva, Arima, Chaguanas, St Augustine, Moruga, our fenceline community of Laventille/Morvant, Scarborough, and Speyside.
Showcasing Talent and Creativity
Twelve finalists were selected by an independent panel of judges, with the competition divided into two categories: Forms 1 – 3 and Forms 4 – 6. The prize-giving ceremony was a testament to the students’ expressive and captivating masterpieces that beautifully conveyed the theme of community. Their works ranged from realistic paintings depicting children playing in parks and village scenes to abstract and expressionist pieces that evoked feelings of togetherness and strength.
Recognition and Rewards
At the ceremony, we distributed over $40,000 in prizes to the talented young artists. I was honoured to present the awards alongside the Honourable Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Education, and the head judge of the competition, Mrs. Dominique Gordon-Fanovich. The event was graced by the presence of these esteemed individuals who recognised the exceptional quality and high standard of the students’ artwork.
Supporting Young Talent
Our initiative to support young talent aligns with Angostura’s commitment to nurturing creativity and innovation. By providing this platform, we aim to protect and foster the artistic potential of our youth, ensuring it grows to its fullest. Supporting our young artists at this stage is crucial in helping them realise their capabilities and aspirations.
A Bright Future for Art and Community
The winners of the competition showcased remarkable talent and innovation. In the Forms 1-3 category, Tehya Archibald from Holy Faith Convent, Penal, secured first place, while Andreen Sylvester from Bishop Anstey High School East, Trincity, took second place. In the Forms 4-6 category, Jabari Hutchinson from Success Laventille Secondary emerged as the first-place winner, followed by Alyssa Lezama from Speyside Secondary, Tobago, in second place. Special prizes were also awarded for Most Innovative and Best Use of Medium in both categories, recognising exceptional creativity and skill.
Looking Ahead
The success of “The Art In Us” competition has reinforced our belief in the importance of community and the arts. At Angostura, we are committed to continuing our support for initiatives that inspire and nurture young talent. We look forward to more opportunities to celebrate and encourage the artistic expressions of our youth, contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Trinidad & Tobago.
Press article: https://www.angostura.com/angostura-awards-40000-in-prizes-to-students-in-its-secondary-schools-art-competition/
