2010 Under 11 Children's Art Outstanding Entry

Lachlan

The Battle - My Story

(Art paper, texters and pencil)

Artist's Statement

I was diagnosed with a brain tumour in October 2008 and have had two brain operations. It is still growing so I am now having chemotherapy to stop the tumour from growing. The monster represents my tumour attacking my good cells - the small people at the bottom. The volcano is very powerful and angry and represents the chemotherapy attacking the tumour. The other volcanoes on the horizon are treatments for many other children who are sick too.

Judge's Comment

This is a deserving winner for many reasons. It is extremely well designed, graphic, and visually very eye catching. The simple, but effective use of black and white pen with touches of red highlights the importance of the volcano, red hot and angry, spitting out its soldiers to vanquish the demon below. Despite this menacing imagery, it is anything but bleak. The image has a comic book quality that conveys a sense of humour and a positive fighting spirit. I find it incredible that someone so young can come up with imagery so profound and confronting - it reflects a maturity beyond their years and a depth of awareness of not only his own difficult journey, but those around him.

Judge: Mitch Vane Illustrator

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