A SOLIHULL artist travelled to Dubai to take part in the grand final of a prestigious competition, dubbed the Oscars for the visual arts.
Julie Robertson was a finalist in the second Global Art Awards recognising excellence in art and design.
The Solihull College and University Centre graduate travelled to a luxury resort in Jumeirah Palm, Dubai, to battle it out with other international artists.
Julie had the chance to be named The Best Global Artist of 2018, which is awarded to one outstanding overall winner.
But on this occasion she was unsuccessful – and grateful to be named in among the finalists.
She said: “It was wonderful to see such different cultural requirements, the playing field at the awards was really open and full of different landscapes, it really provided a great overview of the Dubai art scene. I was honoured to make it into the finals.’
“These awards really do single out the best, most exciting artists working today, to celebrate their achievements, and I am honoured to be among the finalists.”
Multi-disciplinary artist Julie earned her fine art degree at the College from 2003 to 2006.
She says she knew she wanted to be an artist from the age of five after winning a competition to produce a poster on road safety.
Julie also teaches workshops and community courses in Olton for others with a passion for the subject.
Much of Julie’s work explores the themes of humanity and equality.
Julie’s submitted piece ‘Drowning Not Waving’ features 36 porcelain hands reaching from the ground, containing quotes, some seen, others concealed.
She says she hopes it raised questions about the concept of helping fellow humans and offering a hand.
There were 16 visual arts categories, ranging from photography, street art, illustration and painting to awards recognising individual artists.
Julie was up against six other entries in her category.
Founder and director of the Global Art Awards Joëlle Dinnage said: “We created the awards a year ago to establish an inspirational international art competition on a global scale.
“This year, standards have been exceptionally high and the competition has been fierce across all categories.
“Congratulations to all the finalists. We look forward to seeing them in Dubai.”
To see more of Julie’s work visit http;//www.jkrart.weebly.com or if you’d like to look at the art courses offered at Solihull College & University Centre, please visit www.solihull.ac.uk.
