Prize winner for the ‘Cup Print’ Xmas Design 2025-26

I’m Hannah. I originally stem from a Fine Art background at A-Level. However, studying for an Art Foundation specialising in Graphic Design kindled a real love in me for this area.

HANNAH LITHGOW, UK

VISUAL COMMUNICATION LEVEL 4 COURSE

I didn’t expect to win this competition

I came across this competition posted in the news board via the school and felt this presented an ideal opportunity to develop my illustration skills while also building upon and adding to my portfolio.

I wanted to ensure that my design was a festive scene that could be used not just at Christmas but was relevant throughout the festive period and possibly into January, as this would appeal to a wider audience. My geography background was particularly useful in focusing on the scenic landscape and rolling mountains. The string of fairy lights was the focal point of the cup for me, as they provided a contrast while also helping to create a calming, cosy aesthetic with the scenic houses and piles of snow in the background

It was an enjoyable challenge, which enabled me to learn new skills to put my images into the appropriate format while also ensuring the seams aligned. One key decision was whether a matt or gloss finish was better for intensifying the colours, and I was surprised that the matt finish (the final decision) was not ‘dull’ and made some of the supporting colours gain greater contrast.

My Prize was an Apple Voucher

I was shocked when I discovered I had won, as I hadn’t expected my design to be selected as the winner. I was most excited to receive the Apple Vouchers as I had always wanted an iPad and pencil to practice digital drawing, so winning the competition meant I could purchase these and further develop my expertise in this area.