Guernsey Artist Wins 42nd Fox Art Exhibition

Friday 15 November 2024

The annual Fox Art competition, which showcases talent from across the Channel Islands, has returned to its original format this year after a brief hiatus.

Jean-Luc Almond, has claimed the top prize of £1,000 at the 42nd Fox Art Exhibition, with his winning piece, 'Shadow', which was praised by the judge, Mick Armson, for its "extraordinary" quality and ability to evoke emotion through its subtle use of light and shadow.

On his win, Jean-Luc Almond said: "It is my first time exhibiting in the Channel Islands and so I feel privileged to be part of this prestigious competition and to win this award.

"I was extremely impressed with the artworks on display so congratulations to all the selected artists. I’m very excited at the prospect of connecting more with artists, galleries and being involved in the Channel Islands art scene’.

Pictured: Jean-Luc Almond's piece "Shadow" which not only netted him the plaudits, but also the £1,000 top prize.

Another notable achievement was secured by Victoria College student Sam Lawrence, who won the U18 prize of £500 for their painting 'Windrush Ship'.

The painting impressed the judges with its powerful depiction of the ship's journey and the human stories it represents.

Mick Armson, a judge for the competition said: "the solidarity and vastness of this ship, whilst at the same time managing to convey a poignant sense of its fragility. When I had selected this piece, I was absolutely delighted to then discover that this was a student entry and was able to give it the accolade it deserves.”

Pictured: Sam Lawrence's piece tackled a tough subject, but brought praise from the judges for the way it captured the emotion.

Jade Kershaw, the Community & Public Realm Officer at Guernsey Arts said there was a very high standard of entries again this year.

"Guernsey Arts is pleased to support the Fox Art Exhibition in its 42nd year. This pan-island competition brings creative Channel Islanders together to celebrate original artwork. It's a joy to celebrate the new faces and voices shaping the Channel Islands art scene. 2024 is a special year for Guernsey as we are also celebrating that the overall winner of the competition is a Guernsey based artist."

The exhibition, which features 35 selected artworks, is currently on display at the George Crossan Gallery in Guernsey until 23 November. It previously exhibited at the Jersey Arts Centre.