This Autumn I was asked to judge Southwark Libraries’ Graphic Art Competition for the second year. This is a wonderful job and consists of working through the many entries for three age categories to choose a winner, runner up and an entry that deserves a special mention. The competition really inspires young people and gives them something engaging to do over the summer holidays. The entries were diverse and wonderful:

At the awards ceremony in Southwark’s Culture Space, which resides in the fabulous Canada Water Library, I led a Record Breakers comics and GN workshop which tied in with the Summer Reading Challenge. There is such a lovely family atmosphere at these awards, that I always try to get everyone involved in drawing, including grandparents and younger siblings. It was great fun walking round to see the characters that were created.

I was able to meet all the entrants and their families – it was a pleasure to talk about the artwork and to encourage young people to continue in a creative direction. The awards were given out by Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Wingfield.