Children’s art comes from the heart: Love-themed exhibition at Marlowes

William Berry won the Marlowes' 'Love is...' art competition

William Berry, eight, of The Reddings Primary School was chosen as the winner out of 800 entries from nine schools for his piece dedicated to his family. He was given his very own art set alongside the whopping prize for his school.

Local artist Kelly Pedlar, who judged the competition alongside centre manager Vince Williams, said: “The winning entry had instant appeal, with lovely colours, lots of effort, and clever use of collage.”

The Reddings’ art subject specialist Jenny Howard said:“The children thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the competition and we were delighted with the huge response and enthusiasm by the children.”

Eight years old William Berry wins the Valentine pavement painting prize at Marlowes Centre, Hemel Hempstead, with the manager
Vince Williams. PNL-150217-115448009 — Eight years old William Berry wins the Valentine pavement painting prize at Marlowes Centre, Hemel Hempstead, with the manager Vince Williams. PNL-150217-115448009

The artworks submitted by William and hundreds of other talented little ones were exhibited in the shopping centre from Valentine’s Day and can still be viewed at Unit 25 next to Shoe Zone until Sunday.

Runner-up prizes were awarded to five-year-old Daisy Clare from Boxmoor Primary School and Niall Dowling, 10, from Gade Valley JMI and Nursery School.

Manager Mr Williams said: “We had a fantastic response to the competition, with the standard consistently high from all the schools.

“Hopefully all those that participated will visit the centre and enjoy seeing their entries on display throughout the half term week.”