Angela is tops in ELCAP Rocks

A bright and cheerful painting of a gnome saw Angela Findlay come out tops in a well-contested ELCAP Rocks competition.

Nell Snodgrass was the runner-up, with a summery painting of a butterfly, while George Torry took third prize with a technically challenging depiction of the Batman logo.

The inspiration for the competition came from Lynn Penman, a member of ELCAP’s Board.  After seeing so many lovely colourful rocks during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lynn suggested a rock painting competition for the individuals ELCAP supports.

The theme of the competition was simple – paint something that makes you happy.

Reflecting on Lynn’s initiative, ELCAP Chief Executive, Paul White, said:

“In the darkest days of the pandemic, communities got a lift through acts of kindness, when people were especially considerate and thoughtful.  Lynn picked up on the craze for painted stones and felt a competition would be a great way to spread some cheer in challenging times.

We received lots of great entries.  While our judges had the difficult task of choosing who got the prizes, everyone who took part was a winner.”

Judges for the event were:

  • Shamin Akhtar, Councillor for Haddington and Lammermuir and Vice Chair of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership.
  • Amanda Owenson, an artist from Prestonpans.
  • Wojciech Kuzma, a member of ELCAP’s Board of Trustees.

White said:

“We are really grateful for the contribution of our three judges.  Amanda, Shamin and Wojciech approached their task with energy and enthusiasm.  I think they enjoyed the experience and we very much appreciate their support for our charity.”

Shamin Akhtar said:

“Well done to ELCAP for organising the rock painting competition. The idea was to paint something that “makes you feel happy”. I thought it was a lovely uplifting idea to get people to think about what has lifted their spirits during a really tough year for everyone. The results were terrific and they put a smile on your face. What a great result. “

The prizes for the events were as follows:

  • 1st prize:  £80.00 East Lothian Gift Card and a rock painting kit
  • 2nd prize:  £60.00 East Lothian Gift Card and a rock painting kit
  • 3rd prize: £40.00 East Lothian Gift Card and a rock painting kit

Commenting on the prizes, White said:

“Our community is at the heart of everything ELCAP does.  We recognised that some local businesses were hit hard by COVID-19.  By offering East Lothian Gift Cards as prizes, we were able to show a little support for our neighbours.”