School pupils to compete for the Paolozzi Art Prize

The categories in an art prize commemorating the capital’s most famous sculptor were announced today.

The prestigious new Paolozzi Art Prize was launched today in the City Art Centre with the help of the late artist’s sister, Yolanda Tartaglia.

 

The competition will be open to S5 and S6 Art pupils throughout Edinburgh schools and aimed at finding talented, aspiring young artists.

 

Entries will be judged in three categories, taking into account creativity, attitude and dedication. An overall prize will then be awarded to one of the three winners. Recognition will be given to pupils who have had to overcome barriers to achieve their potential.

 

The categories are:

 

Talent and creativity

Overcoming barriers

New directions

 

Entries will be judged by a panel of judges from the art community and an awards ceremony will take place in June 2012.

 

Education Convener, Councillor Marilyne MacLaren, spoke at the launch event. She said:- “Art plays a very important role in city life and in schools throughout Edinburgh.

 

“The Paolozzi Art prize will be a great way to encourage young people to be creative and follow in the steps of a cutting-edge Edinburgh artist.

 

“Who knows, maybe we will find the Paolozzi of a new generation!” Fellow LibDem councillor Paul Edie was also at the event.

 

Eduardo Paolozzi was a ground-breaking, Edinburgh-born artist renowned for his sculptures, prints, paintings and tapestries. His most famous works include the coloured mosaic in London’s Tottenham Court Road underground station and the iconic foot sculpture located at the top of Edinburgh’s Leith Walk.