GWCT launches an expanded 2022 Schools Art Competition

Competition now runs through Perth & Kinross, Angus and all Aberdeenshire 

As pupils return to school for the beginning of a new school year, the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has once again launched its Schools Art Competition, which is open to all pupils across Perth and Kinross, Angus, and Aberdeenshire.

Youngsters are invited to submit a piece of artwork showing their favourite species of British game or wildlife in its natural habitat.

The aim of the competition is to encourage pupils to do a little research into some of our native species of game and wildlife and, in doing so, they will learn about the needs of these animals and birds, their preferred habitat and what they eat for example. The more youngsters can be encouraged to engage in these topics then the more they will learn about the countryside, then hopefully go on to find a passion and interest, and possibly even a career, that involves working in and protecting our rural environment.

One exciting aspect of this year’s competition is the new format for the prize-giving event. This will take place at Fingask Castle, Perthshire, and pupils, along with their parents and teachers, will all be invited to come and enjoy a day of activities including falconry displays, seeing gundogs at work, art workshops in the castle, game cookery and tasting, and estate activities organised by the Scotland's Regional Moorland Groups. Of course, our regular prizes of farm visits and art workshops will also be awarded, as well as art materials, books, vouchers and certificates.

The GWCT Schools Art Competition, which has steadily expanded over the years, is only possible with the support of organisations including the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) and Scotland's Regional Moorland Groups. The competition would also not be possible without the help of the artists who both judge the entries and generously provide prizes. Julian Jardine of Jardine Gallery, Perth, has supported the competition for over 15 years, offering clay workshops to prize winners. Mel Shand, the Finzean-based wildlife artist, welcomes winners to her home where they can enjoy private drawing lessons, and this year Emily Crookshank, whose studio is in Glenshee, also joins the competition team. Emily was one of the ‘Artists in Action’ at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair this year, and her art is inspired by the wilds of the Cairngorms.

Iona Laing, representing the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, said: “This year is particularly exciting and especially the day of activities to be held at the wonderful Fingask Castle. In addition, we have opened up the competition to cover the whole of Aberdeenshire, offering the opportunity for many more pupils to get involved. I can’t wait to see the talent that comes in from all regions. Engaging our youngsters in the countryside is a part of the GWCT’s mission and, whilst playing just a small part, we hope to inspire long-term interest in protecting game and wildlife and their habitats for generations to come."

Information packs are being sent out to all schools and will be available soon on the GWCT website at www.gwct.org.uk/schoolart.

Photo shows previous prizewinner Matteo drawing at Mel Shand's studio.