AN UPTON man has won a University of Chester prize for his top art.

At the recent University of Chester Art and Design Degree show, held at The Creative Campus Kingsway, Chester, Andrew Leigh of Upton was the winner of the Prize for Fine Art.

The prize was sponsored by The Storrar Cowdry, of Storrar Cowdry Solicitors of Chester.

Darlene Storrar presented Andrew with his prize at the show.

This year’s show, named Make Your Mark, covered all aspects of art and design incorporating eight disciplines.

Andrew was thrilled to be the winner of the prize for his sculptural installation, which he named Pumpkin Patch.

Andrew said: "My work grew organically I started my painting process from photographic inspiration. Then from some small scraps of wood I was able to tell my story as it grew.

"One piece of work came from a photograph taken by my girlfriend of my nephew carving a pumpkin and this image had various tonal qualities.

"Each piece of work was joined together forming a pumpkin patch."

It took Andrew a year to perfect his work, which has paid off as his hard work and determination landed him the top prize for 2019.

The Department of Art and Design, and especially staff from the Fine Art programmes, are delighted Andrew has been awarded the prize in recognition of his potential to continue, after graduation, as a practitioner of fine art.

Jeremy Turner, deputy head of Fine Art at the university, said: "Andrew has recently completed the BA (Hons) degree in Fine Art at the University of Chester after a successful three years of study.

"His development as a fine artist, with ambitious studio work and full engagement with underpinning critical context, has been exemplary.

"Andrew has been a central member of the student cohort and a joy to teach and we wish him well in his future endeavours."

Mrs Storrar went on to say: “We very much enjoy supporting the artists this way and we are thankful to the university for the opportunity of continuing with this award.

"It was a thought-provoking exhibition and as ever interesting to meet the young artists."