Talented teenager Charlotte Hendry wins competition with George Orwell-inspired painting

Charlotte Hendry, 18, beat 33 other finalists to take the top spot as part of the London student art competition UpStArt.

The former Raynes Park High School pupil won £500 cash from sponsors Opera Gallery, a studio tour and work placement at UK Greetings Cards, as well as work placements at digital marketing agency MBA and creative agency Fishfinger.

The Mournful Man

She has also won a masterclass with graffiti artist Nick Walker for her school.

Miss Hendry, who took her inspiration for the piece entitled Mournful Man from the breakdown of modern society in George Orwell’s novel, said: "I wasn’t even going to enter the competition because I thought I wouldn’t have a chance but my teacher persuaded me.

"Just being in the final and having my work exhibited in a gallery was so exciting but to be chosen as the winner by Jeff Salmon is amazing. I am so happy."

More than 30 established artists, gallery curators and art commentators were among the judging panel who chose the finalists from over 200 entries.

Art buyer and star of Channel 4’s Four Rooms Jeff Salmon picked Miss Hendry as the winner.

He said: "Charlotte’s painting got my vote in the end because not only does this wonderful portrait show extreme technical competency, almost mastery, moreover it is one I would like to hang on my wall which for me says it all."

Miss Hendry left the Bushey Road school in the summer and is now studying at Camberwell College of Art.

Claire Curtis, Raynes Park High School’s head of creative and performing arts said: "We are thrilled and very proud of Charlotte’s fantastic achievement.

"She created a very powerful and technically accomplished piece of work and she deserves her success.

"We are also very much looking forward to the master class with Nick Walker, which will be a wonderful opportunity for our students."

All of the work was exhibited at the Strand Gallery in London until December 6.