Year 7 student, Izaan Ahmed, has achieved a remarkable milestone after having their artwork, ‘Benjamin Zephaniah’, selected for the Royal Academy of Arts’ Young Artists’ Summer Show 2024.
The exhibition, which celebrates the artistic talents of young people aged 4-19 from across the UK, will be showcased both online and at the Clore Learning Centre in Burlington Gardens, London, from 16 July – 16 August 2024.
This year marks the sixth edition of the Young Artists’ Summer Show, a free, open submission exhibition that received over 21,500 entries this year. Izaan’s piece stood out among the thousands of entries, earning a coveted spot in both the online and physical exhibitions, of which only a small number are selected.
Moira Green, Principal at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “We are delighted and immensely proud of Izaan’s incredible achievement. Having his artwork selected for the Royal Academy of Arts’ upcoming summer show is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.
“At Shireland, we believe there is brilliance in every student and strive to cultivate an environment where they are inspired to flourish and achieve their full potential. We look forward to seeing Izaan continue to grow as an artist and are excited for their bright future ahead.”
The Young Artists’ Summer Show provides aspiring artists like Izaan with a unique platform to share their work and gain exposure to a wider audience, marking a significant milestone in their artistic journey.
Izaan commented: “My Benjamin Zephaniah drawing is really special to me. In school we have learnt a lot about him and his passing inspired me to have a drawing to remember what he did.
“His poems inspired me to be a better person and my favourite one of his poems is ‘The British’ as it says a lot about British diversity which is close to me as I was not born in Britain and this poem makes me feel ok to be diverse.”
Rated outstanding three times by Ofsted, Shireland Collegiate Academy, part of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, is renowned for its commitment to nurturing young talents and fostering a supportive environment where students are inspired to excel and be ambitious for themselves.
Championing artists since 1768 via its annual Summer Exhibition, the Royal Academy of Arts is Britain’s longest established art school which believes in nurturing young talent and celebrating the next generation of artists.
To learn more about the Royal Academy of Arts’ Young Artists’ Summer Show 2024, click here.
