Competition winners announced!
The results of a Scotland-wide photography and heritage competition for children, ‘PhotoArch’ have been announced. Rebecca Fyfe, aged 10, from Aberdeenshire and Aurelia Houbert, aged 7, from Edinburgh were selected as winners from more than 470 entries.
PhotoArch is an annual competition for primary-school aged children, that encourages an interest in buildings, archaeology and heritage. In 2008, pupils from Orkney to Dumfries and Galloway took part, and sites under-the-lens included everything from atmospheric ancient ruins to ultra-modern flats. All entries are put into an on-line gallery.
An award ceremony took place on Tuesday 24th February and the Scottish Parliament. The winners were presented with their prizes by Culture Minister, Mike Russell MSP, which included a digital camera and family membership of Historic Scotland, who support the competition. Rebecca, Aurelia and their families were also treated to a special behind-the-scenes tour of Edinburgh Castle.
In addition to the 2 winners, the judges gave 14 other awards; 4 ‘Highly Commended’ and 10 ‘Commended’.
Culture Minister, Mike Russell MSP, said: “I would like to congratulate all of the young people that have made it to the final shortlist, they should be incredibly proud of their achievements. These pictures show incredible skill as well as an appreciation of all types of our heritage - from our industrial heritage at New Lanark, monuments like the Pencil at Largs and the contrast in ancient and modern architecture like Balquain Castle and The White House in Craigmillar.
“It is particularly significant this year, as Year of Homecoming, that young people have a vital part to play in showcasing our culture around the world. As winners of PhotoArch Rebecca and Aurelia’s pictures will be exhibited across Europe and will demonstrate not only the passion Scots have for their heritage, but the talent we have to offer.”
Aurelia said: “When I took the photograph I was trying to see inside the building. But when it came out my two friends were in the photo too, playing hide and seek. There is also the reflection of the old building in the new one. I am really happy with how it looks.”
Rebecca said: “I took the picture of Dunny Deer monument the day I heard about the competition. We have a lot of old Scottish castle ruins around here but I picked Dunny Deer and it was a really nice day as well.”
