Pax is the Winner in National Art Competition

We are delighted to celebrate the success of Pax McDowell, who has been named the winner of The Arts Society 2025/26 National Competition for his A-Level Art.

Pax achieved the top prize for his remarkable piece, Urchin & Bowl, a copper work inspired by Barbara Hepworth. His work was nominated by The Arts Society Truro and selected from a highly competitive field of entries from across the country.

Deeply rooted in his Cornish upbringing, Pax drew inspiration from the coastal environment he knows so well, particularly the rock pools of Mousehole Rock Pool, a rich, multi-sensory landscape that has shaped his creative perspective from an early age. This connection to place is central to Urchin & Bowl, which reflects both the textures and forms of the marine world and the enduring influence of Cornwall’s artistic heritage.

Pax was also driven by a desire to challenge traditional gallery conventions. Having grown up frustrated by the “do not touch” culture of museums, he set out to create a piece that actively invites sensory engagement. Through the use of specialist copper-working techniques his sculpture encourages interaction, allowing viewers to connect with the work not just visually, but physically.

Speaking about his success, Pax said, “I’m thrilled and honoured to have my copper urchin chosen as it represents so much of my home county, Cornwall, and our amazing marine environment, the inspiration of so many artists. I would like to thank my teachers at Truro School and in the wider community, local artists, and the Cornish craftsmen who took time to pass on endangered copper working skills and techniques, so I could use them myself to bring my vision to life.”

Chris Baker, Head of Design and Technology / Art and Design (3D) at Truro School, added, “Pax’s work celebrates and sympathetically draws from Cornwall’s skilled craftsmen and women, while reflecting its wonderful marine environment. His maturity and skill in working with his hands to shape this beautiful piece will continue to inspire young artists at Truro School and in the wider community. We are hugely excited and grateful to have had this work recognised by The Arts Society for the A-Level prize.”

Pax completed his A-Levels at Truro School last year and has since embraced a varied and adventurous gap year. He spent the first half of the year working at the Old Coastguard Hotel before turning his focus to the sea. More recently, he has been volunteering with heritage sailing organisations, including Cornish Maritime Trust, and is set to travel to Scotland, where he will support a charity in the Summer Isles and gain hands-on experience in a boatyard, ahead of further sailing adventures over the summer.

In September, Pax will begin studying for a BSc in Exploration and Mining Geology at the Camborne School of Mines, continuing his connection to Cornwall’s landscape and natural resources.

The Arts Society A-Level Art Competition celebrates creativity and technical excellence among young artists across the UK, offering students the opportunity to have their work recognised at a national level.

Congratulations, Pax.