Charles Russell Speechlys and City and Islington College announce winner of inaugural student art competition

Charles Russell Speechlys announced the winner of their first student competition at which finalists from City and Islington College displayed their artwork. The winner, Lauren Watson, who is studying A Levels in Fine Art, Photography and Sociology, displayed an untitled photographic sequence, which explored the fragility of human emotion. Lauren’s photography captured her subject at close range underwater to create a sense of stillness through distortion.

The theme of the competition, “Being human, connecting and understanding”, fits naturally with the Charles Russell Speechlys values, which focus on authentic human relationships and collaboration, particularly within the local community.

Kate O’Rouke, MBE, Senior Counsel at Charles Russell Speechlys comments: “We have been working closely with the college for many years and are delighted to be part of an initiative that celebrates creativity and expression through art. With a strong art heritage running through the Firm, this provided a great opportunity for us to support the next generation and local community in showcasing their art and creative talent.”

The guest judges on the evening included Ben Langlands and Nikki Bell (Langlands & Bell) who, since their collaboration in 1978, have been exhibiting their varied artwork internationally in places such as London, New York and Japan; Angela Murphy, Head of Facilities at Charles Russell Speechlys and Anna Douglas, Principal of City and Islington College.

Langlands & Bell commented, following the judging: “We were blown away by the quality and the professionalism of the art works. Congratulations to all the young artists who took part and we hope many more will pursue a career in art”.