Life imitates art... with a twist
A BUDDING North East photographer has won an international award for her recreation of a 17th-century classic oil painting.
Lily Dawson-Punshon, from Birtley, photographed her take on Johannes Vermeer’s The Girl with the Pearl Earring painting.
And her modern twist, featuring a pair of earphones in place of a pearl earring, earned her the first ever Alpha Female Award at Sony’s World Photography Awards.
The 19-year-old Newcastle College student explains that her creative decision represents the progression of society and technology and how much the human race has evolved.
Lily said: “To be shortlisted for this award was quite possibly the proudest moment in my life so far.
“To have even been considered for such an empowering award is absolutely astonishing to me, but actually winning it has really made me feel like any of my dreams can become a reality. Surreal is the only word I can use - I feel euphoric.”
Lily, who is about to complete her Extended Diploma in Photography, entered the competition along with photographers from around the world.
In it’s 13 years, the competition has been recognising the best contemporary photography and helping established photographers take the next step in their career, whilst promoting undiscovered talent.
But this year they introduced a brand new award and all female photographers, who entered any of the 10 award categories, were considered for the Alpha Female Award.
Lily adds: “Engaging with Sony and seeing the work of all of the shortlisted participants brought me a sense of female togetherness and empowerment and it feels incredible to be a part of something which makes a difference to women’s lives and careers.”
After completing her course at Newcastle College, Lily plans to study a degree in Fashion Photography at Leeds University, starting in September.
Lily’s photography lecturer, Catherine Shield, said: “Lily has accomplished so much during her time at Newcastle College and I am so proud of her.
“To even reach the final of such a prestigious competition was an amazing achievement. She is very talented and fully deserved to win, I have no doubt she is going to go far in her career as a photographer.”
Sony has created a digital showcase of the best images entered into this year’s competition and Lily’s image will also be exhibited in Somerset House in London as part of the Sony World Photography Awards 2020 Exhibition.