Yorkshire painters in shortlist for lockdown arts competition
YORKSHIRE PAINTERS have been shortlisted in a competition organised in support of young artists and students during lockdown.
Abigail McGourlay, 20, who studies fine art at the University of Leeds, painted a self-portrait titled Brewing, in which she is depicted drinking a cup of tea in the bath, two things she has found comforting during lockdown.
She is now in the running to win the Arts Society’s Isolation Artwork Competition, alongside Harrogate artist Emma Money, whose piece Spirit is shortlisted.
Another of Ms McGourlay’s works, Thalia Dorme, has also been included.
The 10 artworks of the eight artists on the shortlist form a virtual exhibition hosted on The Arts Society Connected website, where people have a chance to vote for their favourite.
The artists were asked to respond
to the theme of isolation and have produced new works that reflect the artists’ experience of lockdown.
Ms McGourlay said: “I’ve struggled with the current situation both mentally and physically.
“The uncertainty of lockdown put me in quite a stressful mindset and I found it, at first, difficult to feel motivated.
“But it is due to lockdown that
I have rediscovered my love of painting.
“This piece captures a real moment of comfort, in both my two favourite things, a warm bubble bath and a hot cup of tea and in myself.”
Ms McGourlay was in the middle of finishing her second year at university and was working as a swimming instructor when lockdown hit.
She has been furloughed from her job and has been continuing her studies from home.
Florian Schweizer, chief executive of The Arts Society, said: “We want to recreate and promote a sense of community, belonging and connection during a time of isolation and distancing.
“We believe the arts have the power to bring people together, and we will not let this virus stop communities from enjoying the arts with each other.”
To vote visit www.connected. theartssociety.org/isolation-artwork-competition.