Children's artwork creates lasting tribute to beloved monarch
Two young artists have left their mark on Queens Gardens after winning a popular painting competition.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has unveiled a tile display celebrating the life of the late Queen Elizabeth II in what would have been her 100th birthday year.
The bespoke masterpiece, created by ceramic artist Ian Minshall from Newcastle-based Black Star Ceramics, is inspired by winning paintings submitted by Ethan Powell and Ava Winter in the council’s annual Britain in Bloom painting competition.
Fourteen-year-old Ethan, from the Coppice Academy, created a distinctive depiction of a corgi wearing a crown, while seven-year-old Ava Winter, from Baldwins Gate Primary School, painted the late Queen alongside her favourite flower, lily of the valley.
The display complements the nearby Queen Elizabeth II statue, creating another lasting feature in one of the borough’s most cherished public spaces.
A small unveiling ceremony took place recently, attended by Ethan and Ava, who were joined by the Mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme, Cllr. Christopher Bailey, and Ian from Black Star Ceramics.
The Mayor said:
This is a celebration of creativity, community and an extraordinary life of service. The painting competition attracted an incredible 1,084 entries from 18 schools, demonstrating the imagination and talent of young people from across our borough.
Ethan and Ava’s wonderful artwork captured the theme perfectly and, thanks to Ian’s exceptional craftsmanship, their ideas have been transformed into magnificent works of art. Positioned alongside the Queen Elizabeth II sculpture, the complementary tile displays create another fitting tribute that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for years to come.”
The Mayor has presented all 60 painting competition winners with certificates and prizes. An eye-catching exhibition of their artwork is currently on display at Keele in Town.
Photographs provided by the Sentinel.