Now in its fifth year, Test Valley Arts Foundation again supported the ‘The Best of Hampshire Artists’ Exhibition held at the beautiful Sir Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey.

Some fifty of Hampshire's best artists put a wide variety of work in all mediums on display, from acrylic to watercolour, pastel to pencil. Subjects vary from landscapes to seascapes, portraits to pencil studies and visitors have a wonderful opportunity to purchase original work quite often portraying local scenes.

In addition to framed work there is a wide selection of unframed prints and original pieces, as well as a large selection of greetings cards by the artists. The judges will have had a hard time choosing their best picture in the exhibition with one lucky winner being awarded with the ‘Loveday Trophy’ and a cheque for £300.

Once again, Test Valley Arts Foundation donated £250 for the ‘Best of Test Valley Artists’ painting.

The Prize this year was won by Soraya French, also winner in 2008, with her picture ‘Cigarette Break’. The judge commented: Soraya French’s ‘Cigarette Break’ is vibrant, humourous and well composed. The figures of the waiters are so relaxed, intimate and convivial against the busyness of the bar.

2nd came Wendy Jelbert, 3rd last year, with ‘French Café Break’. The judge was impressed by the fine detail and delicacy of the brush work and the way the artist has captured the busy atmosphere in this beautiful holiday setting.

3rd was Karen Coulson with ‘Wren’. The judge commented: The artist has captured the movement of the wren and the light mistyness in the background. Lovely composition.

Highly Commended was ‘Confrontation’ by John Trevorrow who exhibited for the first time. A good composition – and the judge was particularly struck by the portrayal of the elephant and its movement.


Event organiser Anne Middleton and Roy Perry holding on to the ‘Best of Test Valley Artists’ prize until Soraya French is back from her holiday

At the presentation ceremony, Test Valley Arts Foundation chairman Roy Perry said: “Test Valley Arts Foundation is committed to encouraging all forms of artistic activity within our region and we are particularly pleased to see our local artists so well represented in this stunning Hampshire-wide exhibition, now in its fifth year. The quality of the creative work exhibited is going up and up and the judge had a difficult task in choosing just one winner from amongst the twenty one paintings exhibited by artists resident in Test Valley.”


Anne Middleton

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is hosting ‘The Best of Hampshire Artists’ exhibition until 3rd October 2010. Open daily from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free.


Michael Widén, Test Valley Arts Foundation development officer, presenting the 2009 award to Alix Baker