Black History Month Artwork Showcased

Posters and creative writing work from a recent competition in secondary schools is now showcasing in Sutton Central Library.

With the theme ‘Black British History Makers of Today’ the winners and runners up were announced at the finale of the month long activities that marked Sutton’s celebration of Black History Month.

For 1^st placed Brooke Sara Clark (pictured) athlete Darren Campell was the inspiration in the 11-13 age category and supermodel Naomi Campbell was the focus for winner of the 14-16 category, Jehan Al-Safar.

There was also a special commendation awarded by the judges for Ayobami Akin Agunbiade ,(pictured) a pupil at Wilson’s school for his ‘outstanding research and insightful points’ about the issue of race in the media during the recent disturbances.

The prizes include a trip to the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool.

The presentation took place in the Life Centre on Saturday and the certificates were awarded by the Mayor of Sutton, Cllr Gerry Gerome.

Other schools displaying art work include Stanley Park High, St Philomena’s Catholic High School for Girls and Carshalton College portraying notable figures from chef Levi Roots to the first TV ‘Apprentice’ winner Tim Campbell amongst many others.

The competition was devised in association with the local education authority and Kate Evans, the Inspector for Inclusion and also one of the judges, explained the importance- ‘it’s an opportunity to recognise the results of educating our pupils in developing positive attitudes and understanding in our diverse society.’

Sylvia Lambe, one of the organisers of BHM Sutton, was encouraged by the level of participation- ‘this was our first initiative to directly involve the schools in Sutton and the response is a very clear indication that local students are keen to take part in recognising the varied contributions of the Black community in the UK.

She added that ‘the high standard of work reflects the recent headlines of Sutton having the brainiest teenagers in the country!’

Attended by Paul Burstow MP, local residents joined in the free gala event that marked the culmination of month long activities celebrating African Caribbean culture in the borough, with a variety of live entertainment including Ugandan drummers and dancers and homegrown musical talent.

The art is on show until Wed 30 November on level 2 in Sutton Central Library.