Donegal children asked to 'let their imaginations run wild'

Children from Donegal are being called on to let their imaginations run wild and create a modern masterpiece for Sightsavers Junior Painter Awards as the deadline for this year’s competition fast approaches. Mini-Matisses and pint-sized Picassos need to have their entries in by Friday November 25th.

Embracing creativity and education are the core of objectives of the competition which is open to primary school students across Ireland.

This year’s theme “Framing the Future” is sure to inspire some imaginative entries and judge, Laureate na nÓg and illustrator, PJ Lynch, has some great advice for budding artists looking to paint a colourful creation: “Be expressive, no idea is too crazy because who knows what’ll happen in the future, don’t be afraid to use plenty of colour, and most importantly, make sure you don’t miss the closing date!”

Entrants have the chance to win cash prizes for their schools, sponsored by the Irish Times, and memberships and ‘toolboxes’ full of arts and crafts materials from ReCreate Ireland. Fifteen regional winners will be selected and will have the opportunity to see their work displayed at a special Awards Day in spring 2017 where three overall national winners will be announced. Every child that enters will receive a Certificate of Participation in recognition of their artistic efforts. The closing date for entry is Friday November 25th 2016. Parents and children can get involved by speaking to their school teacher or by visiting Sightsavers website to request entry forms:www.sightsavers.ie/ juniorpainter