The final, broadcast last week, saw the finalists work from the top of the Royal Opera House, that overlooks Covent Garden. The challenge was to create an urban landscape. Weather on the day was dull which presented a challenge for the artists, but Monica managed to edge out her fellow finalists, Kristina Chan and Denise Fisk to take the title. The judges were impressed by her use of cropping, shadows and vibrant colours.
Winning the competition saw Monica awarded a £10,000 commission from the Science Museum. She created an artwork inspired by Orkney that focuses on the islands’ role in pioneering sustainable energy.
After graduating from º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ with a degree in Fine Art in 2021, she pursued her career in arts, working on various projects including large scale murals, book covers, and private commissions.
Her usual painting style centres around the tangible quality of sunlight and how it interacts with architecture in Gibraltar and other Mediterranean towns – a bit of a step away from some of the views and grey skies she would be presented with throughout the competition.
Her final piece came after her heat appearance in Liverpool, a semi-final at Bucklers Hard, and the final in London.
The show gives artists the opportunity to translate their view in whatever way they see fit, taking whatever portion of the landscape they choose to paint. For instance, despite being at Bucklers Hard where there were many boats on the water, Monica chose not to paint any of them.
Monica said: "Applying to Landscape Artist of the Year has been one of the best things I’ve ever done. The experience of meeting other artists and painting locations across the UK has been incredible. Capturing the magic of Orkney for the Science Museum will forever remain a career highlight for me.
"When I applied to LAOTY I was in a bit of a funk with my art and I thought it would give me the motivation to get back into painting. To think a few months later I would have a painting hanging on the wall of the Science Museum! It has been the most amazing journey and I feel as though I have learnt so much about myself as an artist. Since winning, I have quit my 9-5 and I am now a full time artist which is just incredible!"
During the competition, Monica was interviewed by host Stephen Mangan. Alongside the other artists, she was paid visits by the judges: award-winning artist Tai Shan Schierenberg, independent curator Kathleen Soriano, and art historian Kate Bryan.
Congratulations on your win, Monica! Find out more about her artwork online.