drawing inspiration from history

Rhys from Ysgol yr Hendre has been announced as the winner of the primary schools competition organised by Cadw as part of October's Big Draw activites.

The Big Draw campaign, led by the popular children's illustrator Quentin Blake, is an attempt to get more people drawing and to use drawing as a way for people to explore the past, the present and the future.

After a short tour of the castle, children participated in a drawing workshop and then displayed their drawings on an 8ft x 8ft model of the castle 'Keep' in the basement of the Eagle Tower.

Rhys' drawing was picked from the many pictures created by local children during the week's activites. Local artist Lesley Wood, who is based at Glynllifon studios, donated a wonderful painting to Ysgol yr Hendre as a prize.

Lesley Wood, artist based at Parc Studio Glynllifon:

'I chose Rhys' picture for its simple fairytale quality. The colours are imaginative and I enjoy the quirky perspective of the castle. He has incorporated the grass which is within Caernarfon Castle's layout and by placing his castle on a hill with trees he has taken notice of the hill opposite Caernarfon Castle. The figure of the knight defending the main gate also evokes the castle's history. I think this is a happy, carefree picture which is well drawn and well thought out. Well done Rhys!'

The runner—up prize of membership to Cadw's Heritage in Wales was awarded to Lowri from Ysgol y Gelli and third prize of a year's free entry to the castle for the whole family went to Danielle of Ysgol Bro Lleu.

Stacy Birkett, Head Custodian
Caernarfon Castle:

'It was wonderful to have the children at the castle and see the way in which they interpreted history. We look forward to an even bigger and better Big Draw next year!'

Posted: 21 December 2005

For further information:

Gwen Siôn, Cambrensis
Tel: 01286 685 254
gwen@cambrensis.uk.com

Notes to editors:

Lesley Wood was born in Chester and educated in Wales and Lancashire. She spent ten years as a professional scenic designer for theatrical productions, before focusing on her own solo work. Presently, Lesley Wood is an exhibiting painter in Wales and works from her studio at Parc Glynllifon. Please contact her on 01286 831 600 for further information.