On Friday 17th March 2017, Simon Betts, Dean of College, Wimbledon College of Arts, presented prizes at the inaugural William Morris Arts Awards held in William Morris House.
William Morris was the moving spirit of the Arts and Crafts Movement at the end of the 19th century. His beliefs, both artistic and altruistic found their highpoint at Merton Abbey Mills in Wimbledon, where he produced his world famous designs for fabrics, ceramics and stained glass. William Morris House sponsored and instigated this annual award to recognise the highest quality of artistic endeavour within the community of Merton
The Award was open to anyone living, working or studying in the London Borough of Merton. There were two awards one for Adults and one for Under 18’s and both had with three prizes (1st 2nd & 3rd). A number of Distinction Awards will be given to schools and colleges whose work achieves a high order of merit.
The judges were: Simon Betts, Dean of College, Wimbledon College of Arts Felicity Gill, award winning artist, Tony Kane, Founder, Time and Leisure, Lorraine McGinnis, Former 6th Form College Head of Art, Steve Spence, Senior Lecturer, University of the Arts London.
Adult
1st Prize £500: Maria Fagan
2nd Prize £350: Mary Gregory
3rd Prize £150: Chudamani Clowes
Under 18
1st Prize £250: Kitty Edmondson
2nd Prize £150: Je Young Lee
3rd Prize £100: Iman Butt
Alison Jerard Head teacher Ricards Lodge School for girls, received a distinction award for the high level of achievement entered in the competition by girls from her school. Ricards Lodge is a comprehensive school for girls in Wimbledon who come from a wide range of abilities backgrounds and cultures.