A Marlow student has been recognised with one of the Henley Arts Trail’s most meaningful honours after being named this year’s winner of the Judith Fletcher Memorial Prize.
Amy Smith, a Year 13 pupil from the Sir William Borlase's Grammar School, received the award ahead of this year’s trail, which takes place over the early May bank holiday weekend (2–4 May).
The prize was created only last year in memory of Judith Fletcher, one of the original founders of the trail two decades ago, following her passing.
Her husband established the award as a tribute to her lifelong dedication to championing local creativity.
Amy, whose artwork impressed judges with its thoughtfulness and technical maturity, said the recognition has reinforced her desire to continue developing her artistic practice.
She has already secured an offer from Cambridge University to study Art History next year, but insists that creating art will remain central to her life.
Speaking on the accolade, she said: “Being creative certainly means a lot to me.
“I have always loved art as a way to experiment and to collect different ideas and pieces of inspiration and turn it into a complete work.
“I also have a strong interest in learning about art, as I think art is such a crucial part of our society.”
The Henley Arts Trail, now in its 20th year, attracts thousands of visitors annually and showcases work from artists across the region.
Organisers said the memorial prize is designed not only to honour Judith Fletcher’s legacy but also to encourage young artists to pursue their ambitions, something Amy appears well on course to do.
As the bank holiday approaches, Amy’s work will feature alongside that of professional artists across numerous venues, offering visitors the chance to see the award‑winning talent that earned her this year’s accolade.
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