Janco Kotzé, a Grade 8 learner at Paul Roos Gymnasium recently came third in Konica Minolta South Africa’s inaugural “Art by SA’s No 1” competition.
Janco entered the competition last year when he was a Grade 7 learner at Durbanville Primary School.
The winner’s were announced at a ceremony, held at Konica Minolta’s head office and was attended by all 12 finalists. It was a day of appreciating artwork by the country’s talented youth, which saw them being rewarded for their noteworthy accomplishments.
Being chosen as one of the 12 finalists was no mean feat. An initial 5 480 entries were received from more than 1 000 primary schools, high schools, special-needs schools and tertiary institutions around the country.
He was in shock when he heard he was one of the finalists, Janco said. About his artwork he says: “The different parts of my artwork have symbolic meanings, like the fynbos and protea represents our nation. The bird represents finding ways out of the ashes and into new worlds – and the camera captures the moment.”
Students had numerous themes and a variety of mediums to choose from for their masterpieces. Their artworks were judged on seven criteria: creativity and originality, composition, content, execution, presentation, technical level and overall evaluation.
On 27 November 2018, 126 finalists were shortlisted for the pop-up gallery, showcasing the works of the semi-finalists. Both their talent and hard work were admired by the 105 staff members of the sponsor who voted for the finalists, along with the official adjudicators.
“Well done to the winners,” said Alten Hulme, chief sales and marketing officer, of teh sponsor. “Their dedication, talent and enthusiasm made this competition a success! We have truly unearthed talented young South Africans by view of their artistic expression.”
The winners took home a share of R60 000 and a R20 000 bursary for their school, college or institution.
The 12 finalists, together with a parent, guardian or their art teacher, got to spend a special day with the sponsors.
