Joseph’s Big City masterpiece scoops big prize
Published: 18 May 2018 at 11:00
Work by Anglia Ruskin student goes on display at world-famous London museum
Anglia Ruskin University student Joseph Namara Hollis has been named Student Illustrator of the Year at the V&A Illustration Awards for his work The Big City – a depiction of an urban environment crafted using several different techniques.Joseph, who will graduate from the MA Children’s Book Illustration course at Anglia Ruskin University in October, was presented with the prestigious award at a ceremony at the world-famous London museum hosted by Dr Tristram Hunt, Director of the V&A.
Joseph, who lives in Cambridge but is originally from Burton Joyce, near Nottingham, became the third Anglia Ruskin University student in three years to win the award, and also scooped £3,000 as part of the prize. He studied a foundation art course at New College Nottingham and completed his undergraduate studies at what is now Leeds Beckett University.
The images for the illustration were made from dip-pen and ink combined with monoprint textures, which were then compiled digitally into three colour separations. Joseph was praised by judges for bringing charm and sophistication in equal measure to his piece. His work is now on display at the V&A Museum until 24 June.
The 31-year-old said:
“In short I’m over the moon. I can’t think of a more exciting way to end a course that has been a non-stop, incredibly challenging and fulfilling adventure, from start to finish.
“I’m really grateful for all the support I’ve received from the tutors and students alike at Anglia Ruskin. Receiving this V&A award is a great honour, and hopefully it will help me on my way with my illustration career.”
Dr Tristram Hunt, Director of the V&A Museum, said:
“The V&A Illustration Awards are integral to our founding mission, to promote creativity, ingenuity and imagination. The shortlisted works this year were sophisticated, skilful and a pleasure to judge.”