Two talented pupils from The Maelor School in Penley, have been shortlisted as finalists in The Sovereign Art Foundation Students Prize Chester 2026, a major regional competition celebrating artistic talent across Chester and Cheshire West, Wrexham and Flintshire.
Sophie Hughes and Edan Carpenter have both been recognised for their outstanding work and selected among 30 shortlisted finalists for this year’s exhibition.
Sophie’s shortlisted piece ‘Self Portrait, Identity’ and Edan’s ‘Self Portrait’ were chosen, a remarkable national recognition of their creativity, skill, and dedication.
The annual prize invites local secondary schools to nominate their most promising art students, with each student submitting a piece of artwork for consideration.
The shortlisted artworks will go on public display at Chester Cathedral from 27th April to 5th May 2026, where visitors will be able to view the exhibition and vote for their favourite piece.
As part of the competition, the artist receiving the most public votes will be awarded the Public Vote Prize of £400, with £1,000 awarded to their school. Judges will also select an overall winner who will receive £800, with £2,000 awarded to their school.
All shortlisted artworks will also be entered into a silent auction, with proceeds shared equally between the student and The Sovereign Art Foundation. This gives every finalist the chance to benefit financially from their work while gaining exposure to the art‑buying public.
The achievement is a proud moment for The Maelor School and a reflection of the creativity, dedication and artistic excellence being developed within its Art department.
Leanne Eyre, Headteacher of The Maelor School said, “We are incredibly proud of Sophie and Edan for this wonderful achievement, to be shortlisted for such a prestigious regional art prize is a testament to their creativity, dedication and the high standard of work they have produced.”
“At The Maelor School, we are committed to nurturing talent and encouraging our students to express themselves with confidence and ambition, and it’s fantastic to see their efforts recognised in this way.”
The awards ceremony will take place on 5th May 2026.
