Pupils winning Burns artwork to go in Fire Station Creative

Seven primary schools entered the art competition, promoted by Dunfermline United Burns Club, for the third year running.

Ben Tennant, who is in P7 at Touch, was awarded the first prize for his dramatic interpretation of Tam o’ Shanter.

Ben Tennant with his winning artwork, a drawing of ‘Tam o’ Shanter’. (Image: Dot Adams)

The judges, local couple Colin and Dot Adams, said: “Ben chose a popular, but tricky, Burns scene to depict.

“He obviously researched his subject matter well as is evident from his competent portrayal of the fleeing horse.

“His composition and attention to detail will have real impact whilst displayed in the gallery and reproduced on the cover of next year’s DUBC programme.”

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Second prize went to Grace Sinclair, a P7 pupil at Masterton, for her ‘To a Mouse’ inspired artwork.

Grace Sinclair, from Masterton Primary, receives her prize for her ‘To a Mouse’ artwork. (Image: Dot Adams)

The judges noted: “Grace has used the pastel medium for her illustration sympathetically and there are some lovely details in her work.

“This is a thoughtful and sensitive interpretation of ‘To a Mouse’.”

Both Ben and Grace’s work will be enlarged before being exhibited in the FSC gallery.

The art venue’s curator, Ian Moir, has also allocated space to display six highly commended pieces from the remaining schools.

They are: ‘My Heart is in the Highlands’ by Bellyeoman pupil Klaira Hrastnik; ‘Tam o’ Shanter’ by Sofia Thomson, Commercial; ‘Burns Portrait’ by Sonja Len, Duloch; ‘Tam o’ Shanter’ by Niamh Grieve, Masterton; ‘The Taw Dugs’ by Ruaridh Rees, Milesmark; and ‘Tam o’ Shanter’ by Caila Paterson, Townhill.

All winners were presented with a certificate and gift voucher by Anne McFarlane, who was representing DUBC.

Ben’s artwork will also be reproduced in full colour in the 2025 DUBC annual dinner programme.

Anne, who co-ordinates the competition, said: “While we are delighted that seven schools entered the competition this year, we would love to encourage more schools to take part.

“Throughout January most schools cover a Scottish theme with poems and songs of Robert Burns and we’re hoping that our annual art competition can be integrated into this as part of the curriculum.

“The Burns club supply the paper so there is no cost to the schools and we are happy to visit and discuss ideas if asked.

“Our thanks go to the teaching staff who have encouraged their classes to take part and we look forward to seeing next year’s entries.”