15 Apr 2026
Ciara Calthrop, a final year illustration student from St Albans, has been shortlisted for the Derwent Art Prize.
Out of 5,000 international submissions, her drawing is one of 71 artworks being exhibited at the OXO Gallery in London from April 9-19. The exhibition is free to enter, open 11am-6pm daily.
Created in 2012 by the art pencil brand Derwent, the Prize invites artists worldwide to submit their finest 2D and 3D artworks crafted in any pencil—including colour, water-soluble, pastel, graphite, and charcoal pencils.
Ciara said: “My picture ‘Cats in the Living Room’ is one of six drawings of my landlady’s house that I created for my degree. When I first moved into her house I was drawn to the beautiful light and space – as well as her cats! The living room is full of history and heritage, making for a wonderful drawing.
“I’m really excited about being shortlisted. I’d love it if people could vote for my piece in the People’s Choice Award, which is open until April 27.”
You can vote here.
Ciara is currently finishing her BA Illustration degree at the Cambridge School of Art, Anglia Ruskin University. As well as studying art at Samuel Ryder Academy and then Beaumont Sixth Form, she attributes her early years of art education to Kathy Evershed, owner of ArtShed, the St Albans-based extra-curricular art club for children.
Ciara is available for commissions from May. She specialises in on-location drawing, including illustrating musicians at live events. You can see more of her work and get in touch via Instagram: @ciarakateillustrates
