CSIA student selected in UK Prime Minister’s art competition

Work by a year 7 student from Camborne Science and International Academy has been chosen as part of the UK Prime Minister’s Half Term Art Competition.

The initiative asked young people to submit pieces on something that they are thankful for, with Zak Drakeley from Camborne, selected for his doodling skills in the 11 years old and over category.

“We wish huge congratulations to Zak who has demonstrated ambition and resilience in learning to doodle in lockdown” commented said Mrs Su Gellatly, Assistant Principal for Character Education. “Without question, it has been a tremendously difficult year, but we continue to be amazed by our students who impress us on so many different levels, every single day.”

Zak spent his time during the pandemic learning and practicing his doodle skills, as “it helped to take his mind off everything going on in the world and not seeing his grandparents.”

Kathy Drakeley commented, “We’re so proud of him and everything he has achieved. His artwork has helped to keep him calm in times of high anxiety and he’s very thankful for that.”

Boris Johnson judged the competition, selecting his favourite pieces which were then showcased on the official UK Prime Minister Facebook page to an audience of nearly 1 million people.

“Zak started doodling at the start of the first lockdown as a way of keeping busy. He spends hours designing his doodles and has quickly developed his own signature style!” continued Mrs Drakeley. “He is influenced by Instagram doodle artists, especially Vexx, Gawx and Shrimpy and has even developed his own following with his instagram account ‘Zak’s Doodles’!”

“We are so proud of Zak and his artistic abilities. To be recognised by the UK Prime Minister is a huge achievement and we’re all delighted for him” commented Mrs Gellatly. “At this very challenging time, Zak, along with all our students, continue to embody our school character values demonstrating admirable ambition, resilience and integrity in the highest regard. Throughout the pandemic, we have been so impressed with the CSIA school community.”

Mrs Gellatly added, “Our students have developed some wonderful skills since the beginning of COVID-19, despite it being such an unsettling time. They have all developed as individuals which will stand them in good stead in their academic, professional and personal development. Well done to Zak who has embraced home learning and now has a fantastic skill which we can all enjoy – including the UK Prime Minister!”