Bella Mihyo: 2024 Lester Prize Youth Awards Finalist
We are thrilled to announce that Year 8 student, Bella Mihyo, has been selected as a finalist (Years 7-8 category) in the 2024 Lester Prize Youth Awards. It’s the first time we’ve had a finalist in this very prestigious nationwide portraiture competition for students from Years 7-12.
Bella’s portrait is of her father, Edgar, and is such a stunning representation of him. She has completed this portrait in coloured pencils - her first time working with this medium for this kind of work.
Read her artist statement below:
"Edgar is my dad. When I look at his face, he makes me feel happy and safe. Joy resonates from his smile and I know that he is both sincere and genuine. Like a king, like a ruler who has responsibilities for his people, my dad takes care of me with empathy and good humour. His wisdom and intelligence guides me and I appreciate him so much.
In this portrait, I have tried to portray my dad as a regal man and have presented him in royal-like regalia drawing on his African heritage, especially with the jewels in the crown and the patterning on his jacket. I hope to show his bubbly personality and the spark that I see whenever I spend time with him."
Bella’s artwork will be on display and open to the general public at the WA Museum Boola Bardip in the Old Gaol Exhibition Space from Friday 12 April - Sunday 14 July 2024. The awards ceremony will take place in mid-April, at which time the winning artworks will be announced.
Congratulations Bella - a fantastic achievement!
