The St Simon Stock Secondary Art department is thrilled to announce that seven (!!!) of our GCSE and Sixth Form

students made it to the shortlist for the 2023 John Downton Award.

The John Downton Awards is a highly esteemed exhibition that honours young artists in Kent, showcasing their talents in painting, photography, and drawing.

The works of Elena S, Emilie C, Jamil R, Kyle F, Lauren F, Roisin B, and Will C, some of whose pieces you may recognize from the school's Summer Exhibition, are currently on display at the County Gallery, County Hall in Maidstone.

As always, the standard of the selected works for the John Downton Award is exceptionally high, making it a remarkable achievement to be on the shortlist. We are incredibly proud to share that Emilie Clegg has won the award for "Best Drawing" in the 11-18 category.

This prestigious competition is open to all schools and colleges across Kent, making this accomplishment truly outstanding and well-deserved. During the award acceptance, Emilie delivered a lovely speech in front of local councillors, peers, family, and friends.

Emilie's winning piece will be exhibited at the Turner Contemporary next year, providing a unique opportunity to showcase her talent in an international gallery.

Congratulations to all the St Simon Stock students involved. The John Downton exhibition will remain open until February 2024, from 9 am to 6 pm (excluding weekends) at the County Hall, Maidstone.