Celebrating Student Creativity in the Rotary Young Artist Competition 2026
11th March 26
Abbey College Cambridge is celebrating another year of exceptional creativity as two of our talented students (Dari and Iris) have been recognised in the prestigious Rotary Young Artist Competition 2026. This national competition, organised by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, invites young people across the UK to express themselves through visual art.
This year’s theme, “Happiness in Nature,” encouraged students to reflect on the joy, tranquillity, and inspiration the natural world brings. With a broad and flexible brief, participants were free to explore the theme in any artistic medium – from traditional painting to digital or contemporary styles.
The competition is structured across three levels – Local Heats, District Finals, and onward – allowing emerging artists to develop their skills and gain recognition at each stage. Local Rotary clubs oversee the first round, selecting the strongest entries to represent their region.
We are delighted to share that two Abbey College Cambridge students stood out for their creativity, technique, and thoughtful interpretations of the theme.
Second Place – Senior Section
Dari
Title: Polygon Mountain
Dari secured an impressive Second Place in the Senior Section for her striking acrylic painting Polygon Mountain.
Reflecting on her work, she explains:
“My acrylic painting of a towering mountain against a gold backdrop conveys the awe and joy found in nature’s grandeur. The use of polygonal shapes merging into expressive paint smudges suggests both structure and freedom, reflecting the emotional uplift and energy that mountains can inspire. The golden sky enhances the sense of serenity and happiness, turning the natural landscape into a celebration of light and life.”
Judges were captivated by the painting’s contemporary energy and its powerful interpretation of the theme.
Highly Commended – Senior Section
Iris
Title: Canyon
Iris earned a Highly Commended award for her evocative mixed‑media piece Canyon, created using charcoal, chalk, pen, and white acrylic on brown parcel paper.
She describes the inspiration behind her artwork:
“I created this expressive monochrome artwork to capture the raw beauty and emotion of a mountainous canyon. The contrast of black, white, and grey tones conveys both strength and serenity, reflecting the powerful yet calming presence of nature. Through its dramatic marks and textures, the piece evokes a sense of happiness found in the untamed and awe‑inspiring landscape.”
Judges praised the artwork for its atmosphere, emotional depth, and impressive technical skill.
Dari and Iris have demonstrated remarkable artistic ability, creativity, and imaginative thinking—qualities that make our art community vibrant and inspiring. Their achievements reflect not only their hard work but also the dedication of our Art Department in nurturing expressive and confident young artists.
We are incredibly proud of their success and look forward to seeing their creative journeys continue to flourish.
Congratulations, Dari and Iris!
