12–15 Category Winner • This is Art! 2023 •
Journey of Tranquility
Zihan He • Aged 14 • Dublin
Comments from the Jury
“Wow! Zihan has created such a sophisticated and skilful painting! This is a really exceptional artwork. The way the folds of the coat are captured, the incredible depiction of the reflection and the remarkable combination of styles, with realistic elements seamlessly sitting alongside expressive sections. This is Art!”
Tadhg Crowley, They Glucksman Museum, University College Cork
“Zihan’s painting of a figure lost in thought on a train journey is painted with real skill and facility. The way the relfections are painted in relation to stillness of the girl on the train is really accomplished. While it is very skilled, it has a thoughtful and still quality that reminds me of a contemporary Vermeer painting. You are left to imagine the world rushing by on the outside of the train. Congratulations!”
Colin Martin RHA, RHA School & NCAD
“There’s an obvious skill and talent held by this young artist, but what is truly gorgeous is their ability to present us with a deep rooted emotion in the eyes of her sitter.”
Ruth Medjber, Photographer
Jury's Comments
“Zihan, this is an exceptional piece of art, huge congratulations. You are such an accomplished artist. I particularly love the composition. The double reflection in the window is wonderful, it allows me three perspectives on your beautiful journey of tranquillity. Super congratulations and I look forward to seeing more of your work.”
Amanda Coogan, Visual Artist
“Wow! Zihan has created such a sophisticated and skilful painting! This is a really exceptional artwork. The way the folds of the coat are captured, the incredible depiction of the reflection and the remarkable combination of styles, with realistic elements seamlessly sitting alongside expressive sections. This is Art!”
Tadhg Crowley, They Glucksman Museum, University College Cork
“There’s an obvious skill and talent held by this young artist, but what is truly gorgeous is their ability to present us with a deep rooted emotion in the eyes of her sitter.”
Ruth Medjber, Photographer
