What are the Hamer Awards?
Mrs Mary Hamer died in 1964 and in her will left £10,000 to Huddersfield Art Society in memory of her late husband John James Hamer. Mrs Hamer’s intention was that this bequest was to be used to encourage and support local students, and to support the work of the Society in promoting art activities in Huddersfield. The money has since been carefully invested, so that each year we have been able to make an award to a number of students from our local colleges, who have been put forward by their tutors in recognition for the work and progress they have made during their time at the college.
The Award ceremony generally takes place each spring and is a wonderful event for both the Society members and the students. The students attend with members of their family, bringing with them some examples of their work. After receiving a certificate and a cheque from the President of the Society, the students each do a short presentation for us, which can be a really nerve-wracking experience for them! The Society members really love hearing about the approach the students have been taking in their art and seeing the work they have produced, so I am sure that it is affirming for the students despite their nerves! It is also lovely for us, the students and their families to hear the supportive and encouraging endorsements that their tutors make about them – I have seen so many proud grins on parent’s faces!
Another important aspect of the Hamer Award Event is that, as a Society, we can positively show our support to local colleges and tutors in their work in teaching art. This, in turn, supports promotion of our Society and it’s aim to encourage art in Huddersfield, in addition to introducing more young people to the work of the Society. It is a truly worthwhile event!
The Award ceremony generally takes place each spring and is a wonderful event for both the Society members and the students. The students attend with members of their family, bringing with them some examples of their work. After receiving a certificate and a cheque from the President of the Society, the students each do a short presentation for us, which can be a really nerve-wracking experience for them! The Society members really love hearing about the approach the students have been taking in their art and seeing the work they have produced, so I am sure that it is affirming for the students despite their nerves! It is also lovely for us, the students and their families to hear the supportive and encouraging endorsements that their tutors make about them – I have seen so many proud grins on parent’s faces!
Another important aspect of the Hamer Award Event is that, as a Society, we can positively show our support to local colleges and tutors in their work in teaching art. This, in turn, supports promotion of our Society and it’s aim to encourage art in Huddersfield, in addition to introducing more young people to the work of the Society. It is a truly worthwhile event!
