A local Cairns student was honoured at last night's Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) Excellence in Art and Design Awards.
Leila-Grace Shephard from St Monica's College topped the Year 11-12 category with her emotive painting.
Julie Seidel who judged the entries said Leila-Grace's painting thoughtfully told an authentic story about grief and love.
"This work is a personal, sophisticated response to the theme Colours of Life, as it draws the audience into a sensitive intimate image, embedded with emotion," Julie said.
"The sensitive marks and astute colour relationships support the authenticity found in the artist's statement – From tremendous grief comes tremendous love - love that blooms doesn't go away, it leaves an impression of colour throughout your life," she said.
The annual Art Awards were established in 1994 to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.
At last night's presentation, held at the Kangaroo Point Multicultural Centre, Awardees' artworks were displayed in an exhibition and recipients were presented with certificates and a cash prize.
IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke said the judges were wowed by the quality of the over 600 submissions across all age groups in response to the theme.
"The judges commented on the high standard of entries and the varied and creative interpretations that entrants brought to this year's theme," Mr Burke said.
"Our union established the Awards to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.
"Art is a very important area of learning in schools, and IEU-QNT is proud to support the artistic talent of students and staff in the Queensland non-government sector," he said.
Specific quotes and high-resolution images can be provided of each winner on request.
