LIBBY Gervais’ artwork ‘Untitled Self’ has been shortlisted for this year’s Saatchi Gallery Art Prize for Schools.

The coveted prize received more than 24,000 entries from 66 countries, with only 20 works shortlisted. An exhibition of the shortlisted works will take place at the Saatchi Gallery in London from July 4-13.

The winner and runner up prizes will be announced at an awards evening on July 4.

Sixth-form student Libby was 17 when she completed the painting as part of her art course work at Churcher’s College.

The winning school has the opportunity to win £15,000 for their art department and the winning student will receive £3,000 with a further £1,000 to another student to spend on computer equipment.

Libby said: “This painting was produced as a part of a project at school on the theme of ‘Self’. It is the result of a culmination of smaller drawings, paintings and photographs which were produced as preparatory studies.

“I wanted the self-portrait to show something of the person that I am at this stage in my life. The title ‘Untitled Self’ reflects the transitionary stage I feel I am in, where/as the development of my sense of self is not complete but very much still in progress. Part of this is my creative journey, which is about to move to another stage as I leave school and embark on a course at London College Of Fashion.

“The title also works as an antithesis to the current trend of the selfie, which has become embedded in our recent culture. The pose is also carefully considered as I wanted to do something that engaged the viewer but also says something about my personality. I am very excited about being shortlisted and feel it is a great honour.”

Al Saralis, head of art at Churcher’s College, said: “We are delighted that Libby has been recognised by the Saatchi Gallery and an expert judging panel. Beating off so many international competitors and being one of only 11 UK finalists is testament to Libby’s talent and her phenomenal self-portrait.

“Libby is one of many talented art students here at Churcher’s and it is incredibly rewarding to see them grow beyond school.

“Our A-level course is fine art based, which I believe gives the platform for students to flourish in any creative area they may wish to pursue.”