Pupils from Willaston Primary School offered a new and very different slant on the Isle of Man when they entered a photography competition as part of the school’s support of Island of Culture 2014.
They were challenged to capture in a photograph what the Isle of Man meant to them, with the winning entry qualifying for the prize of a digital camera, provided by the school.
Teacher Helen Moyer said:
‘The competition was just one of a number of projects the school is undertaking in support of Island of Culture. As well as taking a photograph of a person, place or object that had a special meaning to them, the children were asked to explain in no more than 50 words why they had chosen their particular image. The responses we received were eye opening. Some were very moving - poignant even - and the quality of photography extremely accomplished.
‘We were delighted that Andrew Barton, one of the Island’s leading professional photographers, agreed to judge the entries and we were most encouraged by his comments.
‘Island of Culture is not only is a way of celebrating the Island’s diverse cultural life but also of nurturing fledgling artistic talent among our young people, so we are pleased to be make our contribution to the year-long celebrations.’
Andrew Barton said:
‘I was delighted to be asked to judge the competition which revealed some truly outstanding photographic skills. From the very high standard of entries it was clear the children - and the school – had risen to the challenge of Island of Culture’s strap line: “Be Inspired. Get Involved”. Every one is to be congratulated on their efforts and for offering such a refreshingly different perspective on the Isle of Man.’
Competition winner was James Leece, nine, for his photograph of his sister Tori and father at the top of Snaefell.
Runners-up were Molly Preston and Lucy Callow, both aged nine.
