STUDENTS FROM preparatory, primary and high schools have the opportunity to participate in this year's national fine arts competition, as the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) moves to promote "youth art".Two special youth categories have been added to this year's contest to highlight works from young Jamaicans. Youngsters will be divided into two sections: a) 14 years and under; and b) ages 15 to 18.
According to Allison Sinclair, of the Fine Arts Organising Committee, the aim is to "encourage the development of the talent and interest displayed by children in art at this stage."
Schools, in particular, are being encouraged to select the best works by students and submit these for judging. Works exhibited elsewhere can be submitted, as long as these were completed during the period August 1999 - May 2000.
Students may submit up to two pieces in the categories of drawing, ceramics, sculpture/3D designs, fibre/textile art and painting/watercolours.
Deadline for entries is June 30. Entries must be submitted to the JCDC at 3 Phoenix Avenue in Kingston.
Literary competition opens
The JCDC is now accepting entries in the 2000 literary arts competition, in the categories of plays, essays, novels, poetry and short stories. There is also a special category for essays on Emancipation.
The competition is open to juniors (ages 12 and under), intermediates (ages 13 to 17) and adults (ages 18 and over).
Submissions are invited from Jamaicans and non-Jamaicans, with the latter residing in the island for at least two years.
Entries may be in Standard English or Jamaican Creole, except for essays which must be written in Standard English. All entries will be judged on the basis of originality, craftsmanship and use of language.
All entries for the five areas of the competition must be submitted in triplicate and must be accompanied by an official entry form obtainable from the offices of the JCDC.
Deadline for submission of entries is July 25.
