The winners of the Castle Park Arts Centre Open Exhibition, which was supposed to open on Saturday 7th November, have been announced.

Every year, the Arts Centre invite three judges to choose their individual Highly Commended Artist and Overall Winner.

There is also a local Business Choice category, judged this year by Northwich Art Shop owner Phil Bower.

On this occasion, landscape painter Sophie Parr was selected as the exhibition's overall winner, for her painting, Gorse Up on the Bank

"We have selected Sophie's painting as the overall winner because we were captivated by the use of colour, mark-making and textures within it.

"Its energy and dramatic qualities made it a clear winner," the judges said.

Sarah Morley, Nerissa Cargill Thompson and Wynford Andrews were also recognised in the Highly Commended category.

Sarah's drawing, Chinese New Year, was chosen by the Head of Helsby High School's Art Department, Sharron Ray, who said: "This drawing perfectly captures the excitement and atmosphere of a busy city.

"The energy of the drawing and the layering within it suggests a moment in time, making the viewer feel as though they are experiencing this first hand. A wonderful drawing."

Nerissa's Dark Green Sprawl is a textile piece chosen by art teacher and glasswork artist, Mary Pilkington, who found the work to be particularly 'striking'.

"The muted colours and subtle textures intrigued me and it reminded me of lichen and the seaside.

"The eroded feeling of the fabric is reminiscent of rocks worn away by the sea," Mary said.

The third piece to be selected was Wynford's Taking the Applause, which shows a ballerina bowing before her audience.

This piece was chosen by art teacher, Joanne Moss, who explained: "I love the quality of the drawing and the atmosphere of the composition.

"This well observed study is subtle and understated but very beautiful indeed."

The Business Award was this year given to Peter Cunningham Ward, for Leave Me Alone, an acrylic ink image of a gorilla peering through leaves.

Northwich Art Shop's Phil Bower, said: "I apply a simple rule in these circumstances and that is to choose a piece that resonates with me personally.

"The eyes represented in Peter's piece really caught me as soon as I walked into the gallery as well as the skilful control and application of acrylic ink (which can be a tricky medium to work with).

"Leave me Alone I feel resonates with me and I would certainly give it space on my wall."

"To judge art in all its forms is a real privilege. The standard of work in this exhibition is excellent which makes a single decision very difficult.

"Seeing such talent on display is a humbling experience - well done all, and thanks for the opportunity to have a very private viewing."

The gallery is now closed due to the lockdown until Wednesday 2nd December. Please understand that this could be extended if the Government feels it's necessary.

During lockdown all the art on display will be promoted regularly on social media.

Anybody interested in purchasing any of the exhibits should email Kim at [email protected] for further information on size and prices or to make a reservation.