Liverpool City Region's Young Artist Awards: Public Voting Now Open

THE annual Dot-Art Schools competition showcasing the creative brilliance of young artists is now open for public voting.

The search to find the most talented young people across Liverpool City Region is nearing its exciting conclusion; and now, the public can get involved by casting their votes online.

Established in 2012, Dot-Art Schools, in partnership with Edge Hill University, is an inter school art competition that provides hundreds of children in the Region with the opportunity to explore their artistic side. This year's entries come from Year 5 and Year 9 students across more than 80 Primary and Secondary Schools.

Carolyn Murray, Dot-Art Schools Project Manager, said:- "The Dot-Art Schools competition showcases the excellent visual arts happening in schools and develops young artists' creative confidence. We encourage everyone to get involved and vote for an artwork online. Let's make this a record year for the number of votes cast. Voting gives all the shortlisted pupils a chance to be the winner for their school and have their work shown in the iconic Walker Art Gallery."

As a national leader in outstanding teacher training, Edge Hill provides a link between:- Dot-Art and Schools in the Region and supports the organisation in its key aims of promoting creativity and good mental health.

Lorraine Partington, Head of Partnership Development in the Faculty of Education said:- "Our successful partnership with Dot-Art has significantly fostered creativity within local schools, empowering young people to recognise their artistic potential. The positive impact of art on pupils' development is evident. I encourage you to explore the wonderful artworks showcased on the Dot-Art Schools' website and vote for your favourite shortlisted piece."

A judging panel of respected arts professionals have shortlisted 3 entries from each school. The panel includes:- Tina Ramos Ekongo, a figurative visual artist, producer and workshop facilitator; painter Joseph Venning known for his large murals; Alice Demba, who leads the learning team at; Hannah Lambert, the Schools Programme Manager at Curious Minds; and Steph Leach, Senior Lecturer in Primary Education and the Art and Design Lead for Edge Hill University.

Alice Demba, Schools, Young People and Adults Lead at National Museums Liverpool, said:- "Dot-Art Schools has yet again captured a wide range of vibrant artistic talent from students across the Region. It's been my privilege to admire children's and young people's imaginative expression, exploring themes such as the beauty of nature and the ocean as well as their personal reflections and thought-provoking stories. The artworks express deep emotional narratives, playful and abstract concepts, and cultural symbols. We can't wait to showcase their work at the Walker Art Gallery, celebrating their dedication and innovation. We hope this experience also sparks new inspiration as they take in the masterpieces from artists around the world that call our walls home."

The shortlisted artworks can be viewed and voted on at:- Schools.Dot-Art.Com/browse-schools. until:- Thursday, 24 April 2025.

The entry with the most votes from each school will be displayed at the 13th annual Dot-Art Schools exhibition, which is being held at:- The Walker Art Gallery from:- Thursday, 5 June to Sunday, 6 July 2025.

To find out more about Dot-Art Schools, visit:- Schools.Dot-Art.Com or contact Carolyn Murray at:- Carolyn.murray@Dot-Art.Com.

For more information about studying at Edge Hill University, visit:- EdgeHill.AC.UK.

Shaun the Sheep Trail and Easter Party coming to Liverpool 1 this Spring!

A month long Shaun the Sheep AR trail and Easter Party are part of the eggcellent line up of events at Liverpool 1 this Easter.

Families are invited to a new free to enjoy Easter Party, on:- Good Friday, 18 April 2025, at Liverpool ONE. Hosted by Leanne Campbell the Easter Party will take place:- 12pm to 5pm, with a packed programme including:- interactive workshops, an Easter bonnet competition, entertainment and special character visits including:- Shaun the Sheep.

Free Easter hat workshops will take place at John Lewis and Partners and Cass Art led by local art gallery dot-art. Families will also be able to enjoy face painting and egg and spoon races.

Youngsters can show off their creativity by entering their homemade Easter bonnets, those they have made in school or on the workshops of the day into the competition with prizes to be won for the best ones.

Also new for this year, Liverpool 1 will host a Shaun the Sheep augmented reality trail from 4 April to 5 May, marking the beloved character's 30 anniversary.

The Shaun the Sheep: Fun with the Flock AR Trail will take visitors on a free adventure across Liverpool 1 as they unlock interactive Shaun the Sheep animations and fun surprises on their phones.

Donna Howitt, Place Strategy Director at Liverpool ONE, said:- "Easter is a special time of year as we look forward to the warmer weather and spending more time outdoors with friends and family. This year, we're excited to host our very 1st Easter Party on Good Friday, offering families the chance to get involved in crafting and games, giving them the opportunity to come together to enjoy a whole host of free activities. The Shaun the Sheep AR trail adds an exciting, immersive element to the celebrations, bringing a beloved character to life in a unique way. We can't wait to see visitors getting involved and capturing some fantastic selfie moments along the way!"

To find out more about the Shaun the Sheep AR Trail and Easter Party visit:- Liverpool-One.Com.