Sarah Hope is the winner of the drawing exhibition currently on show in Oriel Q Gallery, Narberth, with her portrait called Memory’s Scent, meticulously crafted using coloured pencils.

Phillipa Sibert received the second prize with her sensitive drawing in charcoal named ‘View from Los Galquez’.

The judge, artist and educator Swansea-based Keith Bayliss said the following: “Drawing can be the first port of call for an idea, or the final realisation of an intense expression. It is a tool of investigation, of measurement, a method of assessing and recording or simply as a visual diary.

“For me the smallest drawing can have equal status alongside the largest painting or the most imposing bronze. It is diverse in its many manifestations, from the smallest smudge of pastel with thumb to the broad sweep of acrylic with brush. There is an immediacy and intimacy with a drawing which can be lost in another art-form. Alternatively, it can be painstakingly analytical and finely realised.

“The two drawings chosen show a complete contrast in style and approach. The landscape has a dynamic, a freshness, made possible by the diversity of marks used. It appears almost abstract, but it is a carefully crafted image of an intensely felt and well observed landscape.

“The portrait, could find itself stiff and formal, but is the exact opposite and this is so hard to achieve. It displays a well crafted, finely realised image full of  life, vitality and humour. 

“This is a fine exhibition, which displays how important drawing is as a diverse tool through which we can engage with the world.’

“There is an opportunity for the public to vote on their favourite piece in the exhibition and the ‘People’s Prize’ of £100 will be awarded on the last day of the exhibition, October 29.

The gallery is open Wednesday - Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm. Please contact Lynne Crompton for any further information, tel. (01834) 869454 or email [email protected]