John Downton Awards

The awards

The John Downton Award for Young Artists is an annual exhibition which encourages and celebrates the creativity of Kent's young artists. It is open to students aged 11 to 18 from schools and colleges across Kent.

The award is hosted by us on behalf of the John Downton Trust. The exhibition commemorates the life and work of John Downton, the celebrated Kent artist, poet and philosopher.

Through a process of mentoring and advice, we aim to use the awards to demonstrate the value of creative careers.

2023 John Downton Awards

Applications closed on 16 October.

The John Downton Awards evening and exhibition will take place in County Hall, Maidstone.

2023 winners

Category11 to 16 age group winner17 to 18 age group winner
Highly CommendedErica Du Rietz
Barton Court Grammar School
Flo Sheldon
Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School
BronzeUpkeerat Kaur Bains
St. John's Catholic Comprehensive School
Alexandra Townsend-Jones
Chatham and Clarendon Grammar School
SilverRebecca Kemp
Chatham and Clarendon Grammar School
Charley Kingsland
St. John's Catholic Comprehensive School
GoldJoanna Widyma
Highworth Grammar School
Pip Wilson
Highworth Grammar School
PaintingPoppy Reid-Croucher
Chatham and Clarendon Grammar School
Shantih Hone
Simon Langton Girls Grammar School
DrawingMadison Woodward
Highsted Grammar School
Emilie Clegg
St Simon Stock Catholic School
Mixed MediaDaniel Padfield
Barton Court Grammar School
Toby Roberts
Tonbridge Grammar School
PhotographyMacie Smith
King Ethelbert School
Evie Anker
Dover Grammar School for Girls
Best schoolBarton Court Grammar School

If you require further information please email johndowntonawards@kent.gov.uk.