Christmas Competition for Children "Portraits of Mother"

The "Christmas Portraits of the Mother" competition became a unique initiative. It provided a platform for children to express their creativity freely, helping them develop and refine their unique voice and perspective. The Christmas painting of a mother created by a child can become a cherished keepsake for both the child and the mother. It is a tangible reminder of their love and connection, preserving precious memories for years. Creating art becomes a heartfelt gesture that strengthens the bond between mother and child.

Painting a mother can also allow children to explore their cultural and family heritage. They may incorporate elements of their cultural background or family traditions into the artwork, fostering a sense of identity and connection to their roots.

The competition received a lot of patronage from the HRH Duke of Kent. The “Portraits of a Mother” art competition was organized by The Portrait Foundation, founded by Barbara Hamilton.

Many regard Barbara Hamilton as the “Ambassador of Poland in the West.” She is listed among the 50 citizens of Polish ethnic background who made a significant impact on the life and history of the British Isles, including General Anders, Joseph Conrad, King Canute, and Roman Polanski.

Her sitters include His Holiness Pope John Paul II, H.M. Queen Elisabeth, The Queen Mother, H.R.H. Princess Royal, H.R.H. The Duke of Kent, H.R.H. Prince Michael of Kent, Lech Wałęsa, H.R.H. The Maharaja of Jodhpur, H.R.H. Duke of Braganza, Princess Tatiana Metternich, Margaux Hemingway, Alberto Moravia, Giorgio de Chirico, Buzz Aldrin, and many others, who together constitute “the Hall of Fame” in her gallery.

Barbara Hamilton painted the last posed portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elisabeth.

Peace Ambassador Princess Angelika Jarosławska Sapieha, who is the president of Royal Bridge Family Office (partner of the competition), has met personally with the deserving winner, Eva Mitchinson, in Dale in the Southern part of England, congratulated her and graciously presented the main prize, an Apple iPad, sponsored by the Royal Bridge Family Office.

Eva Mitchinson was overjoyed by this beautiful meeting, enriched by the conversations about art and passion, which will stay in her mind forever. Eva Mitchinson was carefully chosen by the esteemed jury, which included Richard Foster, Chairman of the Royal Portrait Society; Barbara Hamilton, Chairman and Founder of The Portrait Foundation; and Joanna Jakubowska, Chairman of the POSK Gallery.

We're grateful for the support of our competition:

• Polish Association
• Polish Educational Society
• Department of Polonia Didactics
• POSK
• Royal Bridge Family Office
• World Polonia Research Council
• British Poles

Agnieszka Sielaff and her daughter created the event poster, and Agata Tanistra managed the administrative tasks.

The organizers and partners of “Portraits of the Mother" express their heartfelt congratulations to all the children who participated in the contest.

The actual value of art contests lies in the process of creation, personal growth, and self-expression. Encouraging children to enjoy and appreciate these aspects of art-making can have a more significant and lasting impact on their development as artists and individuals.