A trio of Isle of Wight artists – Jeff Dyson, Steve Baxter and Karen Mead – have won major awards at the St Barbe Open Exhibition, a prestigious annual showcase celebrating artistic talent from across the region.
The St Barbe Open, held at the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery in Lymington, is one of the most highly regarded exhibitions in the South, drawing hundreds of submissions. Each year, a panel of expert judges select from over 500 outstanding works across various disciplines.
Karen Mead was honoured with the Printmaking Award for her etching, ‘Dressing’, which showcases her exceptional skill and storytelling through print.
Steve Baxter followed up a well-received recent exhibition at Quay Arts by receiving the Sculpture Award for Clew, a striking and intricate carpet construction that explores texture, form, and craftsmanship in a unique way.
Jeff Dyson won the Coastal Gallery Abstract Award for his drawing, ‘Those Moments’, which captivated the judges with its expressive lines and dynamic composition.
Their success highlights the Isle of Wight’s thriving artistic community and its continued influence on the wider art scene. The recognition of Dyson, Baxter, and Mead reinforces the depth of innovative and thought-provoking work in contemporary art on the Island.
The St Barbe Open Exhibition Lymington, Hampshire – runs from 22nd March to 26th April 2025.

























































































I must say there are some great artists on the island
“I DON’T MEAN THE PISS ARTISTS YOU SEE AROUND TOWN
OR ALONG SANDOWN SEAFRONT”
Spending their hard earned benefit money on booze!
Lol
I mean the talented painters who produce fine works of
art.