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.
2025 John Downton Awards
The application process is now open for schools to submit entries. The deadline for entries is 5pm on 11 September 2025. Teachers can email johndowntonawards@kent.gov.uk to request an application form.
Find out how schools can apply and read the terms and conditions (PDF, 180.9 KB).
The John Downton Awards evening and exhibition will take place in County Hall, Maidstone.
2024 winners
Best school
Winner: Barton Court Grammar School
Individual awards
| Category | 11 to 16 age group winner | 17 to 18 age group winner |
|---|---|---|
| Highly Commended | Gemma Fox | Henry MacDonald |
| Bronze | Grace Berry | Alexandra Townsend-Jones |
| Silver | Esme Marshall | Erin Rogers |
| Gold | Elizabeth Stevens | Emma Tudor Sophie Pierson |
| Drawing | Beatrice Rodriguez-Ribero | Dana Mansell |
| Painting | Bernadette Lee | Edie Wright |
| Mixed Media | Bonnie Ledger | Daniel Efozia |
| Photography | Linda Golling | Ileri Umole |
View the 2024 John Downton Awards catalogue of shortlisted artwork.
Email johndowntonawards@kent.gov.uk for more information.