Geoff and Louise scoop the honours with stunning exhibits at Cleethorpes Library's summer art show

Almost like being there!  Kim and Geoff with his impressive study of Freeman Street market 

                                                      

CONGRATULATIONS to Cleethorpes artist Geoff Humphreys who has scooped a £50 prize after exhibiting his work in an exhibition which ran in the town's library during summer.

Judges voted his vibrant oil-on-canvas study of Grimsby's Freeman Street market the most dynamic of the 37 paintings that were on display.

Because there was insufficient space to set up his easel in the market, Geoff, who grew up in Davenport Drive but now lives on Queen's Parade, worked from a series of photographs to recreate its rich colours and atmosphere."

Judge Kim Rothman, of Lincs Inspire Libraries, commented: "I have always loved the warmth  and energy of the market. 

"We chose this piece as it captures its essence - not least details  such as the onions and hessian sacks.

"All-in-all, it  has a lovely mix of light, energy and market vibes!"

Visitors to the exhibition were also invited to cast their votes, and  the public winner was Louise Barnard with her watercolour  of a donkey entitled  'Gentle Friend'.

Louise, who received a £25 prize, has had plenty of practice with  animal studies.

                                        

Louise - fur and feather are her favourites

For the past two and half years, Louise  she has specialised in pet portraits, painting birds, dogs, cats and horses for commission. 

Says she: "Fur and feathers are my favourite subjects. 

"I love paintings where the subjects look out at you - if you can get the eyes and nose right, you’ve cracked it! 

"I am thrilled to win the public vote! I feel so grateful for every commission, but to have people generally appreciate my work means so much - thank you to everyone who voted for me."                                                   

Gentle Friend - Donkey won most votes from visitors to the exhibition