VICTORIA, Seychelles — Winners of the second edition of the Art Talent Quest, jointly organised by the Augerine Hotel and the Ministry of Education, were rewarded on Tuesday afternoon. First place went to Beau Vallon secondary school, represented by Cayla Marie and Emma Azemia, while second place was claimed by Anse Royale secondary (Stephen Adelaide and Chelsea Scholastique) and third place by the Independent School (Sophia Pragassen and Neo Sunnassee).
Speaking to reporters, the first-prize winners shared their pride in their work. ‘We painted the mountain with the sea. It took us four hours, and we are very satisfied. We both love art and hope to pursue it as a career in the future.’ The students also received cash from the sale of their paintings, while every participating artist was awarded a cash prize. The main event took place on June 27 at the Augerine Hotel, with participants from Anse Royale, Beau Vallon, Mont Fleuri, English River, Pointe Larue, the Independent School, Plaisance, Belonie and Anse Boileau secondary schools.
Each school was represented by two students, who were tasked with reproducing a painting on canvas of a spot around the hotel in three to four hours. The competition, coordinated by Patricia Saminaden, was held as part of Independence Day celebrations. Minister for Education Dr Justin Valentin congratulated the young artists and their teachers for their dedication, noting that the ministry would continue to support initiatives aimed at nurturing the skills and talents of children. He also thanked the Augerine Hotel for its continued support, adding that similar competitions are being held in partnership with Paradise Sun Hotel on Praslin and Canopy Hotel in the south of Mahé.
