Considered a prestigious award amongst schools. Year six St Marys Primary student, Millie Banks has recently taken home a share in the ‘Archbishop’s Choice Award for 2019’ after entering in ‘The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition.’

The competition, a visual arts exhibition for students in Years 5 and 6 and an initiative celebrating and exploring children’s creative, artistic and reflective ability to express their understanding of the Christmas story.

Millie explained, “In June, everyone came up with their own idea to draw artwork based on a select Bible passage, only a few people got picked to continue their artwork with Mr Quick and I was one of them. My artwork went through several rounds of competition in the Region and eventually made it through to Sydney which I was quite proud of.”

“When it got to Sydney, I was notified that I would be getting an award, though I was very surprised, I wasn’t expecting such a big one. It was the best one of all, my family on my Dad’s side is quite artistic, so I think I got that talent from them,” Millie smiled.

This year, the judges specifically looked for artwork that included authentic imagery, they just couldn’t separate Millie’s artwork with another student, with them both sharing the award and taking home the title.

Millie continued, “My artwork was inspired by ‘The Journey to Bethlehem.’ This specific journey reminded me of my Pop who became very ill earlier in the year. My Pop had an extremely tough time trying to fight cancer until he went to join God in heaven. This art helps me to reflect on my life as no matter what life throws at you, you must persist and keep believing.

“I’d like to thank Mr Quick for his help and my parents for supporting me, as well as Mr Corbin and my Teachers. I’m proud that I actually got an award and how far I went with it. It now stays as its apart of the exhibition for a few weeks.

Along with Millie’s one of a kind trophy, she won herself some art supplies including paint brushes, paint, stationary and a book, to which she has assured me she has already started using.

Congratulations Millie!