The artwork of three talented artists has been recognised in a prestigious competition.

Harley Garrett, Emma Hall and Annie Merrick each won Awards and prizes in the annual Norman Sayle Prize for Art competition on June 17, run by the Archibald Knox Society and sponsored by Isle of Man Post Office.

Harley Garrett, secured the award for 'First Year National Diploma – overall body of work' having submitted a portfolio of delicately rendered surrealist style pieces. Emma Hall, was awarded the 'Knox/Sayle prize for innovative work' for her piece which questions peoples perspectives by distorting the manner in which they see something. Annie Merrick, took a highly creative approach to her piece which won the ‘Knox/Sayle prize for Manx inspired artwork' by exploring the link between education, art and inspiration taken from the Manx countryside.

Commenting on her award Harley said: "I am delighted with my award, it’s not registered that I have won yet."

Emma said: "I am really happy about winning. It’s really nice to see the work I put in has paid off as the project took a long time to build."

Annie also commented: "I am delighted to have won and glad that other people appreciate my artwork."

The work of all three artists was moderated by a panel of artistic judges: Myra Gilbert, Carola Rush and Sabrina Crowe - a former A ‘level Photography student representing her employer Isle of Man Post Office, competition sponsor.

Venerable Brian Partington, OBE, Board Member of Isle of Man Post Office presented the awards to the three outstanding students and said: "Archibald Knox and Norman Sayle continue to be great sources of inspiration to young artists. The three winners represent a continuation of the Isle of Man’s great artistic heritage. We take great pleasure in sponsoring this competition each year and appreciate the value of young artists on the Island, who may one day help to design our wonderful collection of stamps."

Isle of Man Post Office Sponsorship Committee aims to support a variety of local initiatives throughout the year and is always keen to hear from individuals and organisations looking for support which it may be able to help with.

Photo - left to right are the three prize/award winners Emma Hall, Harley Garrett, and Annie Merrick.