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 three entries from each school. The Panel includes: Tina Ramos Ekongo, a figurative visual artists, producer and workshop facilitator; painter Joseph Venning Known for his large murals; Alice Demba, who leads the learning team at National Musueums Liverpool; Hannah Lambert, the Schools Programme Manager at Curios 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 from Monday 24 March to Thursday 24 April.
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.
To find out more about dot-art Schools, visit schools.dot-art.com or contact Carolyn Murray at [email protected].
For more information about studying at Edge Hill University, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk.
March 24, 2025
