Newquay Artist Diane Griffiths Wins People’s Choice Award in Prestigious Art Prize

Newquay artist Diane Griffiths has claimed the coveted People’s Choice Award in the 2024 British Art Prize. Diane’s painting, Driving Home, captured the hearts of voters nationwide, bringing the accolade home to Cornwall.

The announcement comes following Diane’s recognition as one of the top 50 finalists in the prestigious competition, with her work showcased at the London OXO Gallery on Southbank during a private reception on Thursday, 5th December. The award ceremony celebrated the public’s favourite artwork, with Diane’s Driving Home emerging as the standout winner.

A Painting with Layers of Meaning

Reflecting on the inspiration behind her piece, Diane shared how Driving Home operates on multiple levels.

• The painting highlights the beauty in everyday moments, showing how ordinary scenes—such as a garage at night—can become extraordinary with the right perspective.
• It reminds us of our connection to the wider universe, encouraging a sense of awe beneath a vast, starry sky.
• Rooted in Newquay, it captures a lesser-seen but iconic view of the area, featuring the Texaco garage next to The Gannel, a location familiar to locals and visitors alike.

Diane remarked how the work also resonates with audiences outside Cornwall. The image of a garage evokes shared experiences of journeys home, whether on the A30 near the iconic ‘Nearly There’ trees or similar landmarks along Britain’s roads.

Recognition and a Bright Future

The People’s Choice Award, which allows the public to vote for their favourite shortlisted artwork, is a testament to the community’s support for Diane’s work. Reflecting on the win, she said:

“I may have created the painting, but I couldn’t have done this without everyone making a connection with the painting and voting. It very much feels like a joint win.”

Her success earns her a £1,000 voucher from art supplier Caran d’Ache and a six-page feature in the February 2025 issue of Artists & Illustrators magazine, due out on 20th December 2024.

A Homecoming for Driving Home

In a fitting conclusion, the painting has been purchased by Jack, the owner of the Texaco garage depicted in the piece. Diane expressed her joy at the artwork returning to Newquay, calling it a full-circle moment:

“For me, it’s the reassurance of recognisable scenery and the thought of home comforts around the corner. Dorothy had it in a nutshell; there is no place like home!”

About the Artist

Diane Griffiths, an award-winning contemporary artist based in Newquay, offers original Cornish paintings and gifts. Learn more about her work on her website: Hand on Art.

For Diane, art is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating connections and surrounding yourself with things that make you smile.

Congratulations to Diane on her incredible achievement!