
2024-2025 AWARDS
Special Jury Award
Children’s Group Artist Special
Title : The Chessboard of Unity
Size : 56 x 71 cm
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Artist : Kaelen Wu
The tilted chessboard and fusion of Western and Chinese chess pieces create a dynamic and symbolic composition. The muted tones and bold contrasts evoke balance and interconnectedness across cultures. This thought-provoking piece blends strategy, tradition, and unity seamlessly, leaving a lasting impression.

Special Jury Award
Young Adult Group Artist Special
Title : What's hidden in the grass
Size : 15 x 32 cm
Medium: Woodcut Engraving
Artist: Steve Zhang
The intricate lines and bold contrast of “What is hidden in grass” create a captivating and dynamic composition. The flowing patterns evoke a sense of movement and mystery, drawing the viewer into the subject’s reflective pose. This artwork masterfully balances abstraction with human emotion, offering an intimate yet universal exploration of hidden thoughts and natural elements.

Platinum Award
Youth Group . World Art
Title : Cherry Blossom
Size : 30 x 30 cm
Medium: Boneless Painting on paper
Artist: Chengen Li
“Cherry Blossom” is a delicate and beautifully executed series that captures the ephemeral beauty of nature. The artist’s precise control of line work and shading demonstrates exceptional technical skill, while the soft pink hues of the blossoms convey a sense of grace and fragility. The subtle texture of the background adds depth without detracting from the focal point, enhancing the overall composition. The falling petals create a dynamic sense of movement, evoking the fleeting nature of spring. This artwork is a testament to the artist’s ability to combine technical mastery with poetic expression, resulting in a truly captivating piece.

Platinum Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Untold Secret
Size : 60 x 80 cm
Medium: Acrylic & Oil painting on canvas
Artist: Xinlin Wu
“Untold Secret” captivates with its surreal and imaginative imagery, drawing viewers into a dreamlike world filled with vibrant colors and intricate details. The artist demonstrates a strong command of composition, balancing bold shapes and subtle nuances to create a dynamic yet harmonious scene. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth, while the expressive figures and overlapping elements evoke a sense of mystery and introspection. This piece showcases creativity and technical skill, inviting viewers to uncover the hidden stories within its rich visual narrative.

Gold Award
Children’s Group . World Art
Title : Dream of the Mountains and Seas
Size : 130 x 40 cm
Medium: Chinese Engraving Printing on paper
Artist: Ziye Lu
“Dream of the Mountains and Seas” is an exceptional series that merges ancient mythological motifs with modern artistic expression. The intricate blue ink impressions on textured paper evoke a timeless quality, resembling traditional woodblock prints while maintaining a unique, personal style. The artist demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship in the detailed depiction of fantastical creatures, seamlessly blending natural and mythical elements. The deliberate use of worn textures and negative space adds depth, suggesting a sense of history and mystery. This work is a stunning tribute to cultural heritage, showcasing both technical mastery and a vivid imagination.

Gold Award
Youth Group . Painting
TTitle : Alley in the morning
Size : 25 x 30 cm
Medium: Pastel on paper
Artist: Zoe Shi
“Alley in the Morning” is a masterful depiction of light and shadow, showcasing the artist’s refined skills in tonal contrast and perspective. The use of charcoal and muted colors creates an atmospheric composition that draws viewers into the quiet charm of the scene. The interplay of light filtering through the narrow alley and the textures of the cobblestones is particularly striking, adding depth and realism to the piece. The lone figure walking away adds a narrative element, evoking feelings of solitude and introspection. This artwork demonstrates an exceptional ability to capture mood and storytelling through a minimalist yet impactful approach.

Gold Award
Young Adult Group . Painting
Title : Patterns of Perception
Size : 15 X 20 cm (each painting)
Medium: Imprint media
Artist: Renee Yang
“Patterns of Perception” is a captivating series that masterfully utilizes printmaking techniques to explore texture, form, and abstraction. The artist demonstrates an exceptional ability to manipulate various imprint media, creating dynamic compositions that are both visually compelling and thought-provoking. Each piece in the series incorporates intricate layering, a harmonious balance of color, and a strong interplay of positive and negative spaces. The juxtaposition of organic patterns with geometric shapes adds depth and invites viewers to interpret the narrative individually. The innovative use of materials and textures reflects a deep understanding of the medium and a bold creative vision.

Aurora Award
Children’s Group . World Art
Title : Floral Elegance of the Jade Pavilion
Size : 38 x 38 cm
Medium: Chinese ink on paper
Artist: Ying Huang
“Floral Elegance of the Jade Pavilion” showcases an exquisite mastery of Chinese ink techniques, harmoniously blending delicate brush strokes with vibrant color application. The artist’s precision and creativity bring the parrot and foliage to life, capturing a sense of movement and natural grace. This work reflects an exceptional balance between traditional artistry and an imaginative interpretation of nature.

Aurora Award
Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Dancing Lion
Size : 39 x 59 cm
Medium: Needle Pen on paper
Artist: Yitian Wang
“Dancing Lion” showcases an extraordinary level of detail and dynamic composition, skillfully executed with needle pen. The intricate linework captures the lively spirit of the lion dance, interwoven with cultural motifs and symbolic elements. The bold contrasts and layered visuals create a striking narrative that invites viewers to explore its depth. This artwork demonstrates exceptional technical precision and boundless imagination, making it a standout piece.

Aurora Award
Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Lighthouse
Size : 27 x 39 cm
Medium: Watercolour on paper
Artist: Olivia Liu
“Lighthouse” beautifully conveys the tranquil charm of a coastal scene through delicate watercolor techniques. The artist demonstrates a keen eye for composition, placing the lighthouse as a central focus, while the surrounding elements, such as the boat, rocky terrain, and trees, enhance the storytelling. The soft blending of colors evokes a peaceful atmosphere, and the subtle details, such as reflections in the water and the textures of the rocks, showcase a refined sense of observation and control. This work captures a timeless serenity, combining technical skill with a creative interpretation of the subject.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Holy Night Artichokes Forest
Size : 27 X 39 cm
Medium: Color Pencil & Pastel on paper
Artist: Ely Chen
“Holy Night Artichokes Forest” is an enchanting and imaginative piece that blends realism with whimsy, creating a captivating narrative. Ely Chen’s use of color pencil and pastel is masterful, showcasing intricate detailing in the textures of the artichoke forest while maintaining a dreamlike softness. The composition draws the viewer’s eye towards the central figure, which adds an element of storytelling and mystery. The use of light and shadow is particularly striking, emphasizing depth and atmosphere. This work demonstrates exceptional technical skill and a unique creative vision, transporting viewers into an otherworldly realm.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : A Festival Night At School
Size : 51 x 61 cm
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Artist: Yuelin Liu
“A Festival Night at School” captures the warmth and joy of a festive evening through bold and expressive brushwork. The vibrant acrylic colors effectively contrast the cool tones of the snowy night with the warm glow of the windows and the illuminated tree. The confident use of texture and dynamic strokes brings life to the scene, evoking a sense of celebration and nostalgia. The composition is well-balanced, with the towering Christmas tree serving as a focal point, drawing viewers into the festive atmosphere. This piece showcases exceptional creativity and skill in creating a narrative-filled and visually striking artwork.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Halloween
Size : 42 x 30 cm
Medium: Opaque watercolour on paper
Artist: Yiheng Zhong
“Halloween” bursts with an infectious sense of energy and playfulness. The artist captures a lively winter scene with a strong command of composition and movement, giving each character a unique personality and dynamic pose. The use of opaque watercolor is highly effective, creating vibrant contrasts between the snowy terrain and the dark, starry background. The intricate details of the clothing and expressions showcase a keen eye for storytelling. This work demonstrates an exceptional blend of imagination and technical skill, resulting in a scene that feels both whimsical and vividly immersive.

Aurora Award
Youth Adult Group . Painting
Title : What my eyes known
Size : 10 x 13 cm
Medium: Charcoal on paper
Artist: Xinyu Ann
“What My Eyes Known” is an evocative exploration of texture and abstraction, showcasing the artist’s masterful use of charcoal as a medium. The intricate layering of lines and tonal values creates depth and movement, leading the viewer through a dynamic and almost surreal visual journey. The swirling patterns suggest a deep introspection, and the abstracted forms invite multiple interpretations, reflecting the artist’s creative vision and conceptual thought. This piece demonstrates a confident command of light and shadow, with an exceptional ability to convey emotion and energy through minimal yet impactful elements. A bold and thought-provoking work.

Best Creative Award
Youth Adult Group . Painting
Title : Wish
Size : 91 x 122 cm
Medium: Acrylic and CD layer material on canvas
Artist: Sunny Huang
“Wish” is a captivating and imaginative composition that masterfully integrates painting with mixed-media elements. The artist’s use of acrylic and CD layer material creates a striking contrast between light and shadow, emphasizing the fractured yet luminous sphere. The interplay of reflective surfaces with bold, expressive brushwork enhances the ethereal quality of the piece, drawing the viewer into its symbolism of hope and fragility. The monochromatic hands reaching towards the fragmented form add emotional depth, reinforcing themes of aspiration and perseverance. This artwork demonstrates exceptional creativity and technical skill, making it a truly compelling visual experience.

Special Jury Award
Youth Group Artist Special
Title : Prism
Size : 60 x 70 cm (each painting)
Medium: Oil Painting on canvas
Artist: Jiayang Sun
The series “Prism” demonstrates an exceptional level of artistic skill and creativity. The fragmented, geometric overlays create a striking visual dynamic, inviting the viewer to explore layers of meaning within each piece. The circular format enhances the sense of continuity, connecting diverse scenes and emotions through a cohesive narrative.
Each composition reveals a careful balance of color, texture, and form, showcasing the artist’s command over technique. The interplay of abstract lines with figurative elements reflects a unique approach to storytelling, encouraging multiple interpretations. This series is a brilliant exploration of perspective and perception, embodying both technical mastery and imaginative depth.

Platinum Award
Children’s Group . World Art
Title : Within the Boundaries
Size : 30 x 40 cm
Medium: Engraving Printing and
Collage on paper
Artist: Qiaoxi Jiang
“Within the Boundaries” exhibits remarkable artistic skill and creativity through its delicate balance of traditional and modern techniques. The intricate blue and white patterns evoke the timeless beauty of Chinese ceramics, while the layered textures and print-like impressions add depth and dimension to the composition. The thoughtful arrangement of objects, combined with the interplay of positive and negative space, demonstrates exceptional control and precision. The inclusion of calligraphy enhances the cultural narrative, adding a poetic touch to the visual elements. This work is a masterful exploration of heritage and contemporary artistry, showcasing both technical expertise and creative innovation.

Platinum Award Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Dancing Dragons and Peonies
Size : 65 x 45 cm
Medium: Chinese ink painting on paper
Artist: Leci Cheng
“Dancing Dragons and Peonies” masterfully blends cultural symbolism with artistic skill. The vibrant peonies, symbols of prosperity, contrast beautifully with the dynamic energy of the dragon.
The intricate patterns on the vases, lifelike dragon scales, and fluid brushwork demonstrate meticulous attention to detail. The gold accents and harmonious watercolor palette add depth and richness, while the calligraphy enhances the cultural authenticity. A striking and elegant composition.

Platinum Award
Young Adult Group . Painting
Title : Dream Voyager
Size : 59 x 42 cm
Artist: Yunqing Guo
“Dream Voyager” is a masterful exploration of imagination and storytelling, seamlessly blending elements of history, nature, and outer space into a cohesive narrative. The artist’s use of vibrant colors, meticulous detailing, and layered compositions demonstrates remarkable technical skill and creative vision. Each piece transports viewers through time and space, from prehistoric eras to the depths of the ocean and the far reaches of the galaxy. The dynamic perspective and intricate textures add depth and movement, immersing the audience in this fantastical journey. This series is an exceptional display of artistic versatility and boundless creativity.

Gold Award
Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Sunlit Spring in Motion
Size : 40 x 40 cm
Medium: Colour pencil, marker pen and mix medias
Artist: Youran Li
“Sunlit Spring in Motion” captivates with its dynamic blend of traditional Chinese motifs and modern elements. The artist’s skillful use of mixed media creates rich textures and vibrant contrasts, showcasing technical precision and creative depth. The thoughtful composition bridges cultural heritage and contemporary themes, making this work both visually striking and conceptually engaging.

Gold Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Wild
Size : 61 x 50 cm
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Artist: Yanni Zhou
“Wild” captures the untamed beauty of nature through its vivid and expressive color palette. The artist demonstrates a confident command of brushwork, layering bold strokes of saturated hues to convey a dynamic and immersive landscape. The interplay of warm and cool tones creates a harmonious balance while effectively drawing the viewer’s eye across the composition. The loose and impressionistic style imbues the painting with a sense of energy and spontaneity, evoking the raw and unfiltered essence of the wild. The thoughtful use of contrast, particularly in the foreground floral elements, adds depth and texture to the piece. This work showcases exceptional creativity and a mature understanding of artistic techniques.

Aurora Award
Children’s Group . World Art
Title : Life in a Quiet Alley
Size : 60 x 80 cm
Medium: Chinese ink, collage and engraving on paper
Artist: Yifan Dai
“Life in a Quiet Alley” skillfully combines Chinese ink, collage, and engraving to evoke a sense of nostalgia and serenity. The artist demonstrates a strong command of traditional techniques while innovating with textured layers and intricate detailing. The composition effectively captures the charm of a historical alley, weaving together cultural storytelling and artistic precision in a highly creative manner.

Aurora Award
Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Sweet Home
Size : 27 x 39 cm
Medium: Watercolour on paper
Artist: Derek Liu
“Sweet Home” exudes warmth and charm through the delicate pen sketch and soft watercolor palette. The artist demonstrates an impressive balance between structural precision and a playful, imaginative touch. The detailed rendering of the house, framed by lively foliage, creates a welcoming atmosphere that speaks to a personal connection with the theme. This piece highlights both technical skill and heartfelt creativity.

Aurora Award
Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Ocean Explorer
Size : 27 x 39 cm
Medium: Watercolour on paper
Artist: Hanson Yu
“Ocean Explorer” is a lively and imaginative underwater scene that showcases a remarkable sense of creativity and storytelling. The artist has skillfully used watercolor to create a vibrant and dynamic composition, with bold outlines and rich, saturated colors that bring the marine world to life. The playful details, from the expressive sea creatures to the intricately designed submarine, demonstrate a keen eye for composition and movement. The layering of different underwater elements creates depth, making the viewer feel immersed in the scene. This piece is a fantastic display of artistic skill and originality, capturing the excitement of ocean exploration with charm and enthusiasm.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Infinite Garden
Size : 38 x 53 cm
Medium: Watercolour and colour pencils
Artist: Kyra Wen
“Infinite Garden” is a remarkable exploration of surrealism and self-reflection, executed with a masterful blend of watercolors and colour pencils. The vivid use of vibrant hues and layered imagery conveys a dreamlike atmosphere that feels both introspective and expansive. The central silhouette draws the viewer into a contemplative journey, while the surrounding mirrors and spheres add depth and symbolism. Kyra Wen demonstrates exceptional creativity and an impressive ability to convey abstract concepts with a cohesive and visually striking composition.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Morning Glory
Size : 39 x 27 cm
Medium: Pen Sketch on paper
Artist: Meiting Wen
“Morning Glory” is a delicate and elegant pen sketch that celebrates the beauty of floral forms through precision and artistry. The intricate detailing of each flower and leaf demonstrates exceptional control of linework, while the bold interplay of black and white adds depth and contrast to the composition. The design is both harmonious and dynamic, showcasing the artist’s ability to balance intricate patterns with negative space. This artwork highlights Meiting Wen’s technical skill and creative vision, transforming a simple floral theme into a captivating and timeless piece.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Deer with Nine Colours
Size : 38 x 52 cm
Medium: Colour and Marker Pencils on paper
Artist: Zichen Luo
“Deer with Nine Colours” presents a mesmerizing fusion of vibrant hues and intricate details, evoking a sense of mythological wonder. The composition demonstrates an advanced mastery of color theory, using contrasting and harmonious tones to guide the viewer’s eye through the dynamic narrative. The imaginative interplay of organic forms and abstract elements creates a fantastical landscape that feels both surreal and deeply symbolic. The skilled use of marker and colored pencils highlights the artist’s attention to detail, texture, and layering. This artwork showcases exceptional creativity and an ability to convey a vivid, dreamlike story through compelling visuals.

Aurora Award
Youth Group . Painting
Title : Snow Mountains
Size : 43 x 34 cm
Medium: Acrylic on paper
Artist: Justin Yuhang Zhang
“Snow Mountains” masterfully captures the serene beauty of a mountainous landscape with an impressive sense of depth and atmosphere. The artist skillfully uses acrylic techniques to layer textures, blending vibrant blues and whites to evoke the crispness of snow and the grandeur of the peaks. The reflective water in the foreground adds a dynamic element, creating a striking balance between realism and artistic interpretation. The attention to light and shadow enhances the sense of distance and scale, demonstrating both technical proficiency and an artistic vision that brings the scene to life.

Aurora Award
Youth Adult Group . Painting
Title : The Chastity Archway
Size : 50 x 64cm
Medium: Collage
Artist: Jiayang Sun
The Chastity Archway” is a striking and thought-provoking collage that challenges societal norms and expectations with a bold visual narrative. The artist skillfully layers diverse imagery, creating a dynamic interplay between historical and contemporary symbols. The juxtaposition of traditional architecture with modern figures and protest elements reflects a deep conceptual engagement with themes of gender, body image, and cultural identity. The use of texture and composition is particularly effective, drawing the viewer into a complex dialogue about history, power, and self-expression. This work stands out for its fearless creativity and compelling social commentary.

Most Promising Award
Children’s Group . Painting
Title : Jurassic Park
Size : 25 x 30 cm
Medium: Marker Pen on paper
Artist: Demi Wei
“Jurassic Park” is a delightful and imaginative composition that showcases the artist’s vibrant use of color and dynamic storytelling. The playful depiction of dinosaurs, set against a beautifully layered prehistoric landscape, demonstrates a strong sense of composition and detail. The use of marker pens enhances the boldness of the design, with crisp outlines and rich hues bringing the scene to life. The expressive characters and whimsical elements, such as the erupting volcano and diverse flora, add energy and charm to the artwork. This piece reflects great creativity and artistic promise, capturing a sense of wonder and adventure with skill and enthusiasm.


Congrats!
Jury’s Message – Atlantic International Youth Art Festival
As an art professor, artist, and the Artistic Director and Chair of the Jury for theAtlantic International Youth Art Festival, I am deeply honored to witness the remarkable talent and creative spirit of young artists from across the globe. This year, we had the privilege of receiving 637 outstanding artworks from China, the United States, Canada, and various European countries—each one a powerful testament to the skill, vision, and depth of thought embodied by the next generation of artists.
What stood out in this year’s submissions was not only the technical excellencedisplayed but also the artists’ ability to engage with critical social themes, demonstrate intellectual depth, and push the boundaries of innovation and artistic expression. Art has always been a mirror to the world, reflecting its complexities, struggles, and beauty—and these young artists have proven themselves to be perceptive and courageous storytellers of their time.
One of the most profound highlights of this festival was the World Art (Folk Art) category, where participants masterfully wove their national and ethnic identities into their artwork. This category became arich tapestry of cultural narratives, breathing life into traditions and heritage while seamlessly integrating contemporary interpretations. The result was avisually and emotionally compelling dialogue between history and modernity, demonstrating how art can be a bridge across generations and cultures.
Beyond the exhibition itself, the Masterclassesprovided an inspiring platform where students not only showcased their work but also shared their creative processes and conceptual frameworks. These sessions revealed the passion, resilience, and dedication behind each piece, offering us jurors an even deeper appreciation of the creative minds shaping the future of the arts. It was a privilege to engage with such thought-provoking, courageous, and boundary-pushingwork, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every participant for their contributions.
As we look ahead, I sincerely hope that this festival continues to be acatalyst for artistic growth, cross-cultural dialogue, and global creative exchange. May it serve as abeacon of inspirationfor young artists—particularly those from Asia and beyond—to forge connections, challenge conventions, and redefine artistic possibilities.
Thank you all for your participation, your artistry, and your vision. It is through such collective passion and creativity that we enrich the world with the power of art.
Mary Blatherwick, Ph.D
Professor, Artist
Artistic Director & Chair of the Jury
Atlantic International Youth Art Festival
