Search for Guernsey's top artist

The Gabriel's stores immortalised in Rob's painting closed in 2007

Art Teacher Rob Sweeney was voted as winner of the 2008 Mourant Art competition when he entered his painting of the Gabriel's shop front.

In October 2009 the annual competition was opened for entries before finalists are decided in November.

Darren Bacon, one of the organisers said: "[In the past] the prize has celebrated our local culture and the wonderful scenery we have in Guernsey".

The finalists' works are put to a public vote to decide the winner.

[It] provides an arena for islanders to showcase their creative genius Darren Bacon

Rob's 2008 prize winning piece depicted a nostalgic view of one of Guernsey's most iconic shop fronts.

Named 38 Fountain Street the prize attracted the most votes in a public poll held alongside an exhibition at the airport.

As well as votes people were asked to leave comments on their favourite works.

Some comments made on Rob's were: "I liked the subject and the fact that you have preserved each shop for posterity in paint and done it with care and attention to detail. A piece of social history well recorded."

"You have beautifully captured a valuable slice of island history, thank you."

"The one I'd most like on my wall."

Darren Bacon said that the event "encapsulates the essence of our community and provides an arena for islanders to showcase their creative genius".

Entries for the 2009 prize close on 25 November 2009 and can be in any medium that is 2D and mountable, an application form can be found on their website.