Local young artists are taking centre stage at Walker Art Gallery thanks to dot-art

Outstanding artistic talent from across Merseyside has been recognised at the dot-art Schools prize giving event, with winners honoured at a prestigious ceremony in St George’s Hall’s magnificent Concert Room.

The celebration marked the culmination of the 13th annual dot-art Schools programme, delivered in partnership with Edge Hill University’s Faculty of Education. The winning artworks now form the centrepiece of the dot-art Schools 2025 Exhibition, returning to its home at the renowned Walker Art Gallery for another year.

This inspiring showcase presents exceptional creativity from Year 5 and Year 9 artists representing more than 80 schools throughout the Liverpool City Region. Art enthusiasts can explore the exhibition free of charge from Thursday 5th June through Sunday 6th July 2025.

Lorraine Partington, Head of Partnership Development said:

“Edge Hill University is proud of our partnership with dot-art, championing the value of arts education and creativity across the region. The standard of work submitted this year has been exceptional, and it’s a joy to see such talent celebrated. Having the winning pieces exhibited at the iconic Walker Art Gallery is a remarkable achievement and a powerful way to inspire the next generation of artists. We encourage everyone to visit the exhibition and experience the imagination and creativity of these young artists first-hand.”

Competition Winners

Primary

• Primary Overall Winner: “Sea Turtle 8” by Maxwell Cogley of St Bede’s Catholic Primary School
• Primary Runner Up: “Frida Kahlo’s Portrait 2” by Lily Beckett of St Austin’s Primary School
• Primary Runner Up: “The Lost Girl” by Vanisha, New Park Primary School

Secondary

• Secondary Overall Winner: “Mirror to the Soul” by Anna Walker of St Julie’s Catholic High School
• Secondary Runner Up: “Ocean Cry” by Daniel Welch of St John Plessington Catholic College
• Secondary Runner Up: “Fox Study” by Jessica Strype of Litherland High School

Beyond the winning works of art, the exhibition also recognises every participating school, valued sponsors, and dedicated supporters. Interactive elements include a special screening showcasing each school’s top three shortlisted works.

This year’s hands-on experience invites gallery visitors to create their own ‘Selfie Sketch’ portrait, contributing to a collaborative ‘Visitors Mini Gallery’ that grows throughout the exhibition.

The path to recognition has been rigorous for each young artist. Schools initially submitted entries, followed by expert evaluation from a distinguished panel of arts professionals who selected the top three works from each institution. The winner for each school was then determined through an online public vote, ensuring community involvement in celebrating these emerging talents. The final decision for the overall winner and runners up in each age group was made by special guest judge Susan Coles.

Lucy Johnson, Head of Exhibitions at National Museums Liverpool, said:

“We are delighted to once again host the dot-art Schools exhibition at Walker Art Gallery, celebrating the creativity of young artists from across the Liverpool City Region. We’re proud to provide a platform where these talented Year 5 and Year 9 students can display their work alongside our renowned collection. It’s wonderful to see the enthusiasm and dedication these young people bring to their art, and we’re thrilled to offer them this opportunity to exhibit in one of the UK’s most prestigious galleries.”

dot-art Schools is incredibly grateful to National Museums Liverpool for once again hosting this exhibition. The Walker Art Gallery stands as the North’s premier national gallery, showcasing Liverpool’s finest art collection for over 130 years. Visitors can immerse themselves in an extraordinary range of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts spanning from the 13th century to contemporary works, while discovering the next generation of artistic talent on the first floor.

Open daily 10am – 5pm (closed Mondays) with free admission – find out more on the Walker Art Gallery website here.

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