MAJOR AWARD: 2021 PACKING ROOM PRIZE AWARD WINNER
'Every Woman'
Priyashna Maharaj, Year 6
St Thomas More Catholic Parish Primary School, Ruse

“Rejoice, highly favoured one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” (Luke 1:28)

The scripture passage, The Annunciation, reveals to us how Mary even at a young age, truly trusted and accepted God into her life. Mary’s youth and humility is a symbol for every girl, to have quiet confidence in themselves, that they are capable of anything in life.

In my artwork, I have tried to recreate young Mary’s wholesomeness. Mary’s eyes capture the moment she hears the words, “Blessed are you among women”, there is a moment of uncertainty, yet total acceptance and belief in God.

I chose white for the background to symbolise the purity of Mary and reference to the striking angel’s light delivering God’s word. I was inspired by Canadian oil painter, Dimitri Sirenko who paints on large canvas with realistic imagery, capturing nature and beauty with his bold paint brush strokes. My paint strokes recreate Mary however her real beauty lies within, just as it does in each young woman.

Listen to Priyashna's description of her artwork below...

View more of our Christmas Story Art Exhibition 2021 artworks by clicking on our young artists' names in the teal panel. Alternatively, click through our artworks below.