Art is in the Family

To be an Archibald Art winner is a dream that many a budding artist wishes for. Such a dream has come true for a young resident of Glenhaven.

A beautiful portrait of her mother, Jane Blatchford, has seen Leah take out first prize in this year’s Young Archies 16 – 18-years old category. Leah who now teaches at her mother’s art school at Castle Hill says –

“My mum’s unwavering dedication to the arts over the years has undeniably ignited a flame within me. Having been raised in her art school since the age of four, I gained not just technical skills, but a deep appreciation for beauty and boundless creativity.

Alongside hundreds of fellow students, I was empowered to express myself through art. From encouraging my early scribbles to my pursuit of art as a young adult, she’s consistently instilled confidence that has become integral to my daily life. Now, wearing an apron myself, I join her in teaching children the transformative power of artistic expression.”

Leah’s technically accomplished portrait “Mum Through Time” pays tribute to the woman who encouraged her creative development.

“It was a long process of deciding how I could capture her essence, but I chose to portray herself in the middle surrounded by the drawings I did of her as a child. The hands around her symbolise, not only, me as a child but also the children she has at the art school. She’s taught thousands of children and been a role model.”

The commerce student said she was over the moon to win and hoped it meant she could now dedicate more time to her art. Leah is now an inspiration and role model herself to many young budding artists.

Dympna Feneley of Winston Hills who is Jane’s mother and Leah’s grandmother is justifiably proud of her granddaughter.