Lynne Mowbray | The Young Archie competition which runs alongside the Archibald Prize 2017 Regional Tour encourages young artist’s aged five to 18 years old to submit a portrait of someone who plays a significant role in their lives. This year’s winners of the Young Archie Prize were: Vienna Venneri 5-8 years, McKenna Wearing 9-12 years, Oscar Stephenson 13-15 years and Chloe Taylor 16-18 from Lismore. Each artist was given the opportunity to comment on who they chose and why. Vienna Venneri (not yet at school) said that her artwork titled Rainbow was a portrait of her mum. “I did my mum because I like my mum. I did lots of purple because my grandma likes purple and a blue necklace for my mum. I did rainbow here at the bottom because I had a rainbow birthday when I was five.” McKenna Wearing from Cowper Public School. McKenna’s work was titled, What is Nanna thinking? “I chose my Nanna because she is a very special and important part of my life and I thought it was a good choice.” Oscar Stephenson from Maclean High School. Oscar’s portrait was titled Uncle Zamey. “My uncle Alexander, he is always fun and has a story to tell.” Chloe Taylor from Lismore High Campus. Chloe’s art work Lucy was a portrait of her friend. “My portrait is based on a close friend of mine I’ve known for the past 9 years. I chose to draw her because she has such a fun, bubbly personality and has always been there for me with help and advice. I coloured her in bright colours to represent her bright, quirky personality and to show how she stands out in my life.” The Young Archie Prize was judged by Rhondella Hyde of the Grafton Art Club, who is also a teacher of children’s art classes. The Young Archie Prize will be on exhibit until 18 March, at the Grafton Regional Gallery.