Celebrating Talent: John Downton Awards

The John Downton Awards is Kent’s annual art competition for students aged 11–18, celebrating creativity across painting, drawing, mixed media, and photography. With prizes tailored to each age group and medium, the awards showcase the very best young artists in the county. Shortlisted works are displayed in a public exhibition, with winners revealed at a special awards ceremony.

Named in honour of Kent-born artist John Downton, the awards have been inspiring young talent since 2000. Each year, a panel of judges selects around 90 top pieces from the previous academic year to feature in the exhibition. This year, we are thrilled to announce that five Stocky students have been chosen to showcase their work!

-        Joe Brighton

-        Lily Lander

-        Alex Spence

-        Langa Somhedlwana

-        India Coles

The exhibition will be held at the County Gallery in County Hall, Maidstone, opening to the public on Monday 26 January 2026. The awards evening will take place on Tuesday 11 February 2026.