Young artist shines in national art competition

Grade five pupil, Luciua van der Ross, has made her school and community proud after placing third in South Africa in the national “Clean Water, Clear Mind, Strong Community” art competition, hosted by the University of the Western Cape (UWC).

Her artwork, created over two days, captured the judges’ attention with its message about the importance of water and its use of colour.

Luciua said the purpose behind her painting was rooted in awareness and responsibility. “My painting’s mission was to show that water is very important and we all need it in our daily lives,” she said. “We need it to survive, and we must play an important role in making sure we keep it as clean as possible.”

She said she approached the artwork with confidence and curiosity, experimenting freely as she worked. She said it was easy to do the painting because she was in her comfort zone.  “I mixed a lot of colours and tried new painting techniques. I was proud of how my painting turned out, but I didn’t expect to place third in South Africa.

The moment she learned of her achievement was overwhelming. "I had mixed emotions when I was told-proud, extremely happy, and shocked at the same time,” Luciua said. “In my heart, I wanted to win it. I’m a very shy person, but I was proud that my parents showed how proud they were of me.”

For Luciua, art is more than a school subject, but a passion that brings her joy and a sense of identity.“I love painting because it’s something I really enjoy, and the school appreciated my hard work,” she said. “I do want to become an artist, even though I’m not yet sure which career path in art I will follow.”

Her arts teacher,  Mark Jeneker, said Luciua’s achievement came as no surprise. He described her as a learner with exceptional focus and an instinct for colour and detail.

“Luciua has a quiet determination that shows in every piece she creates,” he said. “She works with such honesty and emotion, and that’s what makes her art stand out. This competition theme was a perfect fit for her, because she understands the message behind her work and communicates it beautifully.”

Mr Jeneker said that Luciua’s accomplishment has inspired her classmates and strengthened the school’s commitment to nurturing young artists.“We are incredibly proud of her. Achievements like this remind us of the talent that exists in our classrooms. Luciua’s success shows that when children are given support, encouragement, and space to express themselves, they can reach remarkable heights.”