The prestigious Dewi Bowen New Artist Scholarship is set to be awarded to Barnaby Prendergast, a promising North Walian artist from Bethesda near Bangor, at the esteemed National Eisteddfod, taking place in Wrexham. This significant recognition will occur on the festival’s opening day at Y Lle Celf, the Eisteddfod’s renowned art exhibition, marking a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career.
Established in profound memory of Dewi Bowen, this esteemed scholarship is generously bestowed by his niece, Elizabeth, continuing a legacy of supporting burgeoning artistic talent. The award, one of the most significant art scholarships available, specifically targets individuals who have dedicated less than five years to their artistic studies or professional practice, underscoring its commitment to nurturing fresh perspectives within the art community.
With the invaluable £1,500 prize, Barnaby Prendergast harbors ambitious plans to further his artistic development. He intends to utilize the funds to enroll in specialized courses at a recognized art school or college, or alternatively, to participate in intensive masterclasses, each option designed to significantly enhance his skills and career trajectory in the competitive art world.
This Dewi Bowen Scholarship not only provides crucial financial support but also opens doors to future opportunities for this emerging talent in Wales. As part of the award, Barnaby will receive an exclusive invitation to showcase a broader collection of his work at the National Eisteddfod in y Garreg Las in 2026, offering a prestigious platform for his evolving portfolio.
Reflecting on his journey, Barnaby shared insights into his creative process, noting, “I received some funding from student initiatives to buy woodworking tools, which enabled me to make a Welsh stick chair – one of the pieces I submitted. It’s not very comfortable to sit on as it’s quite small.” This anecdote highlights his practical approach and dedication to his craft, embodying the spirit of Welsh artists.
Barnaby’s academic foundation is diverse and comprehensive, starting with his time as a pupil at Ysgol Friars in Bangor. He then honed his practical skills by studying woodworking at Coleg Glynllifon, before culminating his formal education with a fine art degree from the University of the West of England in Bristol, providing him with a strong blend of traditional and contemporary art techniques relevant to the contemporary art scene in Eisteddfod Wrexham.
Having graduated this past summer, Barnaby Prendergast is keenly focused on transforming his artistic aspirations into a sustainable career. He expressed optimism, stating, “I graduated this summer and hope to develop my career as an artist with this scholarship. I’ve found a shed on a small farm that I hope to turn into a studio,” showcasing his proactive steps towards establishing his creative space as an emerging talent in Wales.
The discerning panel tasked with selecting the scholarship recipient expressed deep admiration for the applications received. They noted, “Many of the applications showed clear sensitivity and integrity, which resonated with the panel, and the Dewi Bowen Award in particular highlighted the exciting potential of emerging talent that deserves to be supported and nurtured,” reinforcing the critical role of such initiatives in fostering the next generation of Welsh artists.
