THE first art exhibition for 2018 at Tenby Museum was officially opened on Saturday. Through the Veil of the Soul features work from five Pembrokeshire secondary schools and was supported by Valero.

The exhibition was formally opened by artist Barry John MBE, of the VC Gallery in Haverfordwest, and William James, public affairs analyst at Valero. They also had the unenviable task of judging winning entries from each school.

Museum trustee Dr. Kathy Talbot introduced the two speakers and also welcomed Mari Bradbury, art and design subject officer at the WJEC. Kathy thanked Valero for their continued support of the museum’s educational and community themed exhibitions.

In his opening speech, Barry John stated: “Will and I have spent two hours mentally wrestling to try and chose the best of this wonderful selection of pictures. It is difficult to select one work over another, or one school over another and so we have decided to have two categories for each school: Highly Commended and Deserving of Praise. But to be honest, everyone who has exhibited here is deserving of praise. I used to box when I was in the army and I see parallels between stepping into the ring and putting a picture in a public gallery space for everyone to comment on, so I applaud the bravery of each and every artist on show here.”

Will said: “I agree with Barry, every piece of work here is astounding and each artist is worthy of praise.”

The chosen winners were:

Milford Haven School: Sarah Baglee (Highly Commended); Jessica Kenniford (Deserving of Praise).

Sir Thomas Picton School: Daisy Brook-Peters (Highly Commended); Zoe Hyrisicos (Deserving of Praise).

Tasker Milward School: Mallika Khan (Highly Commended); Tamsin Davies (Deserving of Praise).

Ysgol Greenhill School: Holly Bartlett (Highly Commended); Emily Ralph (Deserving of Praise).

Fishguard School: Ieuan Thomas (Highly Commended); Osian Morgan (Deserving of Praise).

The exhibition runs until Saturday, January 27.

The museum is currently open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm (last admission 3.30 pm).