The Roche Court Educational Trust New Art Centre in Salisbury was the venue for the regional finals of the ARTiculation Prize 2018. Ashleigh Smith, Level 3 BTEC Visual Arts Extended Diploma student from Bournemouth & Poole College, delivered an impressive presentation on Jean-Michel Basquiat’s 1988 painting ‘Riding with Death’.
The ARTiculation Prize is a nationally acclaimed public speaking annual event designed to promote the appreciation and discussion of art. It seeks to engage students aged between 16-19 in full-time, further education, regardless of background or experience, with art and to develop their confidence and ability to express their opinions, thoughts and conclusions. Adjudicators are asked to assess each presentation as a whole, looking at content, structure, delivery and the speaker’s original approach and unique potential.
Up against strong competition including students from Christ The King College, Clayesmore School and Winchester College, Ashleigh gave a 10 minute long presentation to a packed audience.
Judge Emma Goltz, Trustee of the Contemporary Art Society praised Ashleigh for the journey she took the audience on commenting that she did a great job outlining the context to Basquiat’s work. She also praised Ashleigh for picking a painting that people do not always recognise as a Basquiat.
Ashleigh said “Being part of this competition was amazing, I absolutely loved being able to put my public speaking skills to the test. It was fantastic being in a room with people who are so passionate about the arts and I really felt like they took the time to listen to me.
“I chose to speak about Jean-Michel Basquiat’s 1988 painting ‘Riding with Death’ because to me, it is such a poignant artwork. Not only was it such a marvellous display of Basquiat’s true skill as an artist, but it was also manifested at such a sensitive moment in his life. The timing between the creation of the painting and his tragic death fascinate me.
“Although I didn’t win the regional final, I am thrilled to have been awarded the Kenneth Clark Travel Award. I’m planning to visiting the vibrant city of Brighton, to witness the incredible amount of street art and bustling atmosphere. I’m looking forward to writing my article for The Roche Court Educational Trust New Art Centre all about my trip!”
Laura Joy, Lecturer in Visual Arts at Bournemouth & Poole College, said: “To have the confidence to talk publically for 10 minutes is a real credit to Ashleigh. We’re all incredibly proud of her achievements.”
The college is still accepting applications for its Arts courses starting this September. Please visit www.thecollege.co.uk/applynow for more information.
