Every year the New Art Centre designs a competition linked with current exhibitions and events at Roche Court in order to foster collaboration between different school departments. Their fifth competition Look Up was inspired by the work of the artist Peter Newman and was launched by Peter and the writer Gavin Pretor-Pinney, author of the best selling Cloud Spotter’s Guide. Harrow Way Year 8 students were encouraged to participate and several pieces of work were entered.
In August, a letter of thanks was received from The Roche Court Educational Trust thanking the Art Department for the school’s excellent entries. The two judges, Peter Newman and Gavin Pretor-Pinney, made special mention of Stuart Ratcliffe’s super work.
Mrs Harvey and Stuart and his family were invited to attend a buffet lunch on Saturday 22 September prior to the afternoon’s presentations and the private viewing for the New Art Centre’s autumn exhibition.
Although Stuart did not receive a prize, it is a fantastic achievement that his work has been recognised by two highly acclaimed judges. Richard Deacon, winner of the 1987 Turner Prize, met Stuart and talked about his work.  A wonderful day was had by all.
Please use the following links to find out more about Peter Newman’s work and the New Art Centre and Gavin Pretor-Pinney