Spirited Arts 2024 Competition
VinE and NATRE celebrate World Vegan Day with Spirited Arts animal-theme winners
The 2024 academic year marked the 20ᵗʰ Anniversary of NATRE’s Spirited Arts Competition! Since 2004 Spirited Arts has attracted over 450,000 entrants. Annually, they receive an average of over 25,000 entries for judging. Hundreds of UK schools get involved and they get entries from as far afield as Hong Kong, USA, Australia, Thailand and Bahrain.
Following the amazing success of our 2023 theme ‘All God’s Creatures’, Veganism in Education (VinE) and the Animal Interfaith Alliance (AIA) sponsored another animal theme – ‘Why do Animals Matter’. The Spirited Arts Competition provides children with the opportunity to critically think about our relationship with animals and explore our RE Today resources.
This year’s entries to the NATRE international Spirited Arts competition on the theme “Why Do Animals Matter?” were truly spectacular! It is the second year that Animal Interfaith Alliance (AIA) and Veganism in Education (VinE) have sponsored a theme that enables children and young people to explore human-animal relations and to think deeply about the moral and spiritual aspects of all living beings. Once again, we were blown away by the children’s extraordinary artistic creations and deeply reflective narratives. Each piece not only showcased remarkable talent but also conveyed profound insights into the significance of animals in our lives, offering thought-provoking perspectives on empathy and compassion through the unique lens of religious education.
This year’s judging held an extra special touch, as the founders of AIA and VinE travelled alongside our Patron, the esteemed academic Dr Richard Ryder, to RE Today’s headquarters in Birmingham. There, we had the pleasure of meeting the wonderful RE Today Team and Angela Hill, the visionary behind RE Today’s pioneering resources on ethical veganism as a worldview. These resources were commissioned by VinE and supported by the AIA and have been freely available to teachers and schools since January 2023. Angela’s work inspired the animal theme and supported school engagement, enriching the children’s interpretations and bringing thoughtful, compassionate approaches to their artwork.
Selecting winners from thousands of entries proved immensely challenging, as each submission showcased exceptional creativity and insight worthy of recognition. We are especially grateful to our Patron, Dr Richard Ryder, for undertaking the difficult task of selecting the theme’s winners and runners-up.

Dr Richard Ryder
“I believe, as a psychologist, that most children are concerned and interested in members of other species. This is not just a children’s interest, but one that can and should last throughout life. In my childhood, however, adults too often tried to stop this interest as being “sissy”. Far from it: such interests and compassion are the foundation for a moral community of all painient beings”
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved – teachers, students, NATRE and the RE Today team – for making this year’s theme a resounding success! We can’t wait to judge the entries to next year’s animal theme!
You can access the FREE ethical veganism as a worldview resources from RE Today & VinE here
WHY DO ANIMALS MATTER?
The theme invited creativity and critical thinking around the important issue of how we humans value and act towards other animals. Religions and ethical belief systems promote kindness and compassion, and call upon people to actively avoid doing harm… the Golden Rule demands that we treat others how we would wish to be treated. But do these moral codes extend to animals as well as other humans? Can they? Should they? Do some animals matter more than others? Engaging with this theme encourages a search for wisdom in texts, stories, traditions and practices from the world’s religions and philosophies. Students can reflect and think with care about humanity’s relationship with the other animals who share the earth with us. Younger children may express the spirituality of their love for animals. Older students may grapple with diverse opinions on animal welfare and rights.
2024 Gallery
Painism is a term coined by Richard Ryder in 1990 and serves as a principle underlying his ethical framework. Ryder argues that any individual, whether human or non-human animal, who is capable of experiencing pain holds moral standing.
Ryder defines pain as 'any form of suffering or negative experience, including fear, distress and boredom, as well as corporeal pain itself. Such things as injustice, inequality and loss of liberty naturally cause pain. Pain is the great evil, and inflicting pain upon others is the only wrong.'
To learn more about painism: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/367595338_Speciesism_and_Painism_Some_Further_Thoughts
Winner
Beatrix – Age 12 – An Animal’s Life
Prior’s Field School
My piece has been inspired by both my beliefs and the Buddhist belief of “all living things should be treated the same.”
This stop-motion video is made to spread the word of how our animals live just as peacefully as us. We need to recognise what we are doing to these animals and try to stop the damage before it is too late.
Animals should be able to live alongside us peacefully and seeing the population of different animals decrease rapidly is heart breaking. I hope this piece can inspire people to cut down usage of products that harm animals, or potentially sponsor the animals.
Winner
Sian – Age 13 – Empathy
Ponteland High School
The piece delves into the nature of cruelty and empathy. In the animal kingdom, we observe behaviours that might be considered cruel from a human perspective.
However, humans, despite our supposed civility and intelligence, often engage in actions that demonstrate a lack of empathy towards other living beings. This juxtaposition raises questions about the true nature of humanity and our place within the broader ecosystem.
Through this sculpture, I aim to create a visually arresting image that immediately draws the viewer into this ethical dilemma. The unsettling nature of the swapped heads serves to disorientate the viewer, mirroring the confusion we often feel when confronting our own contradictory behaviours.
In the context of contemporary issues such as animal rights, environmental conservation, and the ethics of scientific research, this piece asks us to reconsider our relationships with other species. It challenges us to examine our own capacity for empathy and question whether our intelligence truly sets us apart if we fail to extend compassion to all living beings.
Ultimately, this artwork poses several profound questions: Who is the real victim in this scenario? How do we define intelligence, and is it more valuable than empathy?
Are we, as humans, truly as evolved and civilised as we believe ourselves to be? By confronting viewers with these uncomfortable questions, I hope to spark a deeper reflection on our role as stewards of the planet and our responsibilities towards other species. After all, are we really superior if we lack basic empathy?
Winner
Rose – Age 14 – The Butcher’s Shop
James Allens Girls School
I made this piece, ‘The butcher’s shop’ based on the theme, ‘Why do animals matter?’ to explore the ethics and impacts of slaughtering and eating animals. I chose this theme as veganism and vegetarianism are controversial topics in modern society, and I was intrigued by the contrasting beliefs in many major religions surrounding diets and meat. The butcher stands, faceless, a representation of the millions complicit in suffering, refusing accountability, soiled and holding a bloody cleaver. Just behind him, a sea of corpses hangs, showing the greed and indulgence of intensive farming.
As an atheist, I was intrigued by how many religious people are passive in their consumption of animals. I questioned how so many could claim to value God’s creations and then remain uncaring as proof of animal cruelty and suffering is presented to them. Multiple religious texts preach the importance of caring for animals. For example, in the Bible, it is explained that ‘the righteous care for the needs of their animals’ (Proverbs 12:10). In the Qur’an, it is emphasised that animals worship Allah too, and the Prophet Muhammad’s love for animals is mentioned multiple times. In the Torah, the psalms indicate God’s concern for animals, emphasising tender mercies and provision for all living creatures. All of these texts, while not banning eating meat, clearly state that animals should be treated respectfully and not abused.
However, 85% of farmed animals are confined to factory farms here in the UK. This intensive method of farming is the single biggest cause of animal cruelty on the planet, and yet in the latest data, the number of intensive farms is on the rise, not decline. In intensive farms animals are kept indoors in large, unregulated quantities and with no space to move, with low-quality feed and most animals never seeing natural light. Intensive farming means serious and prolonged suffering for the animals trapped in the system.
To represent this, I utilised the juxtaposition of such a bloody sight with the golden religious symbol hanging from the butcher’s neck. The piece aims to question the faithful’s complicity in the suffering of animals with harsh and bloody subject matter and contrasting imagery.
However, in some religions, such as Buddhism, a vegetarian diet is the norm. The follows the first precept, ‘to abstain from taking life’ recognising that all beings want to live free of suffering, building the compassion that is central to the religion. The Sutta Nipata states, ‘Whether they be creatures of the land or air, whoever harms here any living thing, who has no compassion for all that live, let such a one be known as depraved.”. I would argue that such a cruelty free, compassion based diet is a better option for those who claim to value their creators works.
Winner
Jake – Age 11 – The Cat
Kibworth CofE Primary School
People often say that the eyes are the windows to the soul because they show feelings and personality. By making the eyes very detailed and putting bright colours around them, we make sure we look right at the animal’s eyes. This helps us feel connected to the animal and understand its emotions. The mix of the colourful background and the detailed eyes makes the animals soul stand out, so we see it as more than just a painting. It helps us see the true spirit and uniqueness of the animal.
Winner
Niamh – Age 6 – The Golden Rule
Ramsey Manor Lower School
Saint Philip Neri was a kind and special man who loved and cared for animals. He became a vegetarian because he thought that animals shouldn’t be killed. Saint Philip Neri hated to see people keeping animals in a cage and treated cruelly. He always followed the golden rule and to set all the animals free. My artwork shows animals living in their natural habitat freely and happily.
Winner
The Junior and Senior School, Cyprus – Age 13
Class prize
We received a wonderful set of entries from pupils in The Junior and Senior School, Cyprus. The set of entries from the 13 year old students in particular really impressed the judges, so we are pleased to offer a group award. The gallery image shows a small collage of these, and you can view the full set of entries here.
Winner
St Andrew’s Primary School – Reception, Year 6 – Ages 4 – 11
We are delighted to award a whole school prize to St Andrew’s Primary schools for their fantastic set of entries. Each year group work on collaborative projects. The gallery image shows a small collage of these, and you can view the full set of entries here.
Winner
Brook Green Centre for Learning – Ages 12-15
We are delighted to award a whole school prize to Brook Green Centre for Learning for their wonderfulset of entries. There are individual pieces and a collaborative piece of class work. The gallery image shows a small collage of these, and you can view the full set of entries here.
Roya – Age 11 – 1 lipstick, 1 life
Ravenscote Junior School
My theme is ‘Why do Animals matter?’ and my art portrays a rabbit, which is used for animal testing, locked in a cage, ‘asleep’.
I have used the apostrophes, as the animal testers don’t know if she is alive or not. I think it is similar to Schrodinger’s cat, but the difference is that it’s not that they don’t know.
They don’t care.
The phrase, ‘1 lipstick, 1 life’ represents how much animals go through for one lipstick, just for the lipstick to be thrown away, and the animal has to suffer all over again!
I am not telling you to not wear makeup, I am telling you to be cautious with what brands you buy your cosmetics from.
There could be far more beings suffering than just your bank account.
“Just as we have a moral responsibility to treat our pets with kindness and respect due to their ability to feel pleasure, pain, and emotions, the same principle applies to all sentient beings.”
Edie – Age 4 – Animals help us
St Peter and St Peter & St Paul C.E Primary
Animals can help us look after the world. I like that birds spread seeds and help us grow plants. I love how animals feel, they make me happy. People should treat animals with kindness and respect. Animals can help us to see that the world is good.
Shanaya – Age 11 – Animals Matter
Sutton High Prep School
I was inspired to write a poem about the topic “Why do Animals matter” This is because I care for animals deeply, for they each have their own charm and characteristics. However, it’s heartbreaking to see their habitats being destroyed.
Deforestation, pollution, and climate change are causing destruction in the natural world, putting countless species at risk. The thought of these incredible creatures losing their homes and struggling to survive is devastating. Nevertheless, we can make a change no matter how big or small.
With this information, it’s crucial to raise awareness and take action to preserve the natural world. Animals hold immense significance due to their precious value. They are vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem balance, serving as pollinators, predators, and prey. Animals also contribute to human well-being, providing companionship and emotional support. We owe it to these amazing creatures to ensure they have a future, filled with the beauty and freedom they deserve.
In order to portray all of these ideas, I decided to write a poem about animals, which allowed me to capture and convey these profound connections and insights. Writing a poem provided me with a medium to express the wonder, respect, and love we feel towards animals, highlighting their significance in our lives and the natural world.
Through my poem, I aimed to foster a deeper appreciation and a call to protect and cherish all the creatures in our current environment, especially those that are nearing extinction and those experiencing habitat loss.
From writing this poem, I have learned how important animals are and how essential it is to protect all of their species. Every animal, from the smallest insect to the largest mammal, plays a crucial role in the intricate web of life. Their existence is intertwined with ours in ways that we may not always see, but which are nonetheless vital.
In conclusion, my poem about animals is not just a reflection of my love for them, but a call to action for all of us to protect and cherish the natural world. By appreciating the importance of animals and understanding the threats they face, we can make a positive impact. Let us all strive to create a future where every creature, no matter how big or small, can live in harmony and freedom. This is our duty, our privilege, and our gift to the world.
Ruby – Age 5 – Ark
Kibworth CofE Primary School
In foundation stage we used the Bible story ‘Noah Ark’ as a stimulus for our artwork. We discussed how Noah was chosen by God to build the ark and save two of each animal. The children created their own arks using paper plates. They used a water wash technique for the sky and then used their cutting skills to create the animals for their ark.
Anoushka and Edie – Age 14 – Do Animals matter
Nonsuch High School
We did this piece of artwork inspired by how diverse and colourful the landscape of the jungle is, and we represented this through our drawing of a lion- the king of the jungle-and his multi coloured mane. We want people to celebrate animals and nature, rather than tearing it down and destroying it. We decided to use a lion to make this statement since lions represent a wide range of concepts: from power and bravery to wisdom and protection. In addition, we painted a lion’s mane flowing in the wind to represent peace rather than danger, to contrast with the common misconception that lions – like many other predators- are a symbol of aggression and something to be scared of rather than admired. Furthermore, lions are a symbol of unity- they appear in several different religions such as Christianity (symbolising the evangelist Mark) and in Hinduism (associated with the goddess Durga). In various cultures, lions are considered protectors and guardians. We wanted to highlight this in our artwork using bold and vibrant colours, to show the animal’s prominence, and how we should respect all animals. The lion often serves as an archetype of the animal kingdom, depicting the strength, power and majesty of wildlife. We wanted to highlight with our painting the importance of biodiversity and the balance of ecosystems, and the vulnerability and need for protection of animals. We wanted to evoke themes of nature’s raw power and the interconnectedness of all living beings, both animals and humans.
Aqsa, Sukriya and Anisha – Age 13 – Equality of creation
Gordons School
We have chosen to draw this image to represent the theme of “Why do animals’ matter?” We have referenced the hands of the ape and of God from Michelangelo’s “The Creation of Adam”. This painting is often interpreted as representing the moment God gives life to Adam; the first man. It symbolises the connection between God and humanity, with God imparting the spark of life into Adam. We have referenced from this image to show how God created animals as God created humans, and how God also gave life to animals. It shows the connection between animals and God. Animals and humans have the same creator, so why should animals be treated differently to us? The Earth in the background represents all life and how God created the Earth and everything in it. The birds, the animals on the land and in the sea show all of God’s animal creations. We have decided not to show the face or body of God as in different religions, God looks and is different and we wanted to include all religions in our image. It can also include non-religious peoples’ beliefs., as the hand could be interpreted as a human hand and that we should treat animals respectfully, as we evolved from an animal. We have used the hand of an ape because they are our closest relative. An ape is similar to a human, so why should they be treated differently to us? Our picture, in conclusion, symbolises the equality of all God’s creatures on Earth, as they are all from the same creator. We have taken inspiration from quotes from different religions that show we should treat animals equally such as:
“You say the One Lord is all, so why do you kill chickens?” (Guru Granth Sahib, 1350)”A good deed done to an animal is a good deed done to a human being, while an act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as an act of cruelty to a human being.” (Hadith, Mishkat al-Masabih)”Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.” (Luke 12:6)
Anna – Age 13 – Harmony
Streatham & Clapham High School
The theme I chose is “Why do animals’ matter?”
I thought about how we should love and take care of animals, as well as how they have had such a huge cultural significance around the world and throughout time. My vision for my artwork is celebrating variety and differences and showing that however big, small, strong, or weak something or someone is, we can all live in harmony.
The religions I have chosen to focus on through my piece are Buddhism and Christianity. This is because I think animals play a huge part in their stories and beliefs; for example, in Christianity the story of Noah’s Ark has huge significance to Christians since it demonstrates both the ‘gravity of God’s justice’ and the ‘premise of his salvation’. In the story of Noah’s Ark, animals went in twos which also shows the importance of companionship, which is demonstrated in my piece. In Buddhism, animals are also significant because Buddhism requires us to treat animals kindly. Buddhists also try to do no harm (as little as possible) to animals. Animals also play a big part in Buddhist art and some art pieces include lions, horses, elephants and deer.
In my piece, I used a range of materials including watercolour paints, colouring pencils, granite pencils and black pen. The animals I included in my artwork are the African Bush Elephant and the Menecals Blue Morpho Butterfly. The splashes of colour that surround the elephant and butterfly represent colour and variety and celebrate diversity throughout the world. I made them by blowing through a straw and letting the watercolour splatter across the page.
The reason I chose to include an elephant and a butterfly is because the African Bush Elephant is the strongest animal on earth; however, the Menecals Blue Morpho Butterfly is one of the weakest. This represents the contrast between the two animals and, as I mentioned earlier, that however big or small, strong or weak an animal or person or even a country is, we can all live alongside each other in peace and harmony.
My favourite aspect of my artwork is all the different media and materials I used since it allowed me to be creative (like how I used a straw to create the splashes of watercolour). I also like all the colours in the piece since it allows you to let your eyes wander and discover the meaning behind it.
Matilda – Age 14 – Syringe City
Dr Challoner’s High School
My spirited arts entry is based on the theme: Why do animals’ matter? I chose this because I feel it is important to discuss the effects of animal cruelty and mistreatment towards animals, especially in animal testing. The morals of animal testing for medicines and cosmetics also links into my work because [it is widely agreed] some experimenters consider that it is necessary for medical purposes but can also be seen as cruel and needless for cosmetics such as skincare or makeup. I think animal experimentation has a lot of grey area, and this should be discussed more widely.
The artwork I have created depicts a laboratory rabbit which is on a cliff, above a landscape of needles and scalpels. This cliff is crumbling to symbolise the approaching destruction of the animal, and its life falling before it; this also shows how the rabbit’s death is somewhat unavoidable because what is about to happen to it cannot be prevented at this point.
This connects to how animal testing for medical purposes can be seen as unavoidable and the only option for medical advance, like how the rabbit is about to advance over the cliff edge. The cliff the animal is standing on is about to break off and the rabbit will all onto the needles and objects below. This medical equipment is showing the utensils used to inflict possible damage on the rabbit to carry out research. The rabbit looks sad and has a heartbroken facial expression because it knows the fate that awaits it.
A blood moon and red sky as the backdrop for my artwork shows the pain and cruelty towards the animal and how it can be seen as evil or wrong to many people, but also as something interesting or beneficial to others (as different people have a different perception of a blood moon). Blood moons are also widely spiritually seen as showing negative emotions such as grief and anger and this sky in my art also resembles how the animal may bleed as blood is red. Along the bottom of the scarlet atmosphere I have created, there is a silhouetted skyline of what is an illusion of a city. This is showing how the rabbit cannot have a normal life in the countryside and is being – literally – thrown into a harsh, urban lifestyle which it is not likely to survive in.
Class 2HC – Age 10-11 (SEND) – The importance of animals
Le Rondin School
In 2HC we looked at the main religions and their views on protecting and using animals in their relationship with people. Each child chose their favourite animals and then looked at the teachings and put words to what the animals might say. They think that it is important we respect animals even if they are needed for survival or work. They deserve the same respect as us and they are the same.
Arabella – Age 14 – The Story We Tell
James Allen’s Girls School
My piece, “The Story We Tell” answers the theme “Why Do Animals Matter?” by showing how humans have erased a core part of many religions in order to feel superior to animals.
Religions such as Christianity, Buddhism and many more hold the belief that all life is sacred and equal. The reasoning for this ranges from because it was created by a divine power to because there is no actual “self”, but the main idea stays the same. An example of this is from the Bible, Ecclesiastes 3:18: “I also said to myself, ‘As for humans, God tests them so that they may see that they are like the animals'”. However, throughout history, we as humanity have always forgotten these parts of religion and treat animals as inferior while continuing our destruction.
My piece represents this idea on the left by showing depictions of cave paintings of ‘noble’ humans fighting fierce and vicious animals. The cruel destructive nature of humanity is shown in the very materials these cave paintings would have been made of, blood and burnt wood, both symbols of death and darkness. These stories created by humans and painted in the blood of animals present humans as heroes, kings and overall, just better than ‘mindless beasts’. The fictitious nature of these stories demonstrates how humans turn away from the parts of religion or belief that doesn’t benefit them.
In contrast, on the right, the truth of religion stating that animals and humans are equal is represented by crystal clear photographs of animals and humans coexisting in harmony.
The realness of these images shows how animals genuinely connect with us in this world. The bright greens and peaches in the animal photos contrasts with the browns and greys of the human side. This shows the animals fully accepting religious beliefs which call for compassion and equality for all creation.
This concept is repeated with the comparison between the wolf bending its head in respect, almost like prayer and the man defying religion by looking it in the eye. Both comparisons combine to show how humans have defied religion regarding animals and how animals should be treated as equal.
Isa – Age 13 – Well of three Reinforcements
St Catherines Bramley
May I proudly introduce you to my piece: ‘Well of Three Reinforcements’. Our delightful universe is created by three significant features: the animals, humanity, and God. The well shown is built up of animals, who make the basis of our world. The well holds our beloved Earth. This portrays how animals have shaped our cultures and traditions through ancient bonds. Without them, we wouldn’t even exist. Animals nowadays bring us joy and comfort. Although this might seem small, it brings big, memorable moments in people’s lives. Animals are the cure for the soul(s). The vibrant colours used for each feature portray their uniqueness. Humanity plays an important role in our world because every one of us contributes to making a difference. In my piece, the tiny gaps are filled with people so the well can be strong and complete, adding more support to our society. Being more cooperative with each other balances out every misery and despair. If you look carefully, you will notice nails holding the Earth securely to the well alongside with a gleaming, powerful hand above the clouds seemingly protecting the Earth. This feature is our almighty God giving us love and hope. The nails symbolise his sufferance for us and the universe. The glow around the Earth refers to God’s graceful guarding and presence. When these three commanding forces unite together, the universe becomes magnificently bright even through the darkest times. Happiness overflows with each intricate detail shining with positivity. The tiniest part of our surroundings comes with enchantment.
Completing this piece made me realise how our universe is a beautiful creation with special creatures.
Pamela & Shekinah – Age 11 – Unity and connection
St Cecilia’s Church of England School
Our illustration is of various animals walking into God’s hands with the backdrop of three crosses and a lovely wildlife scene. It symbolizes the unity and connection between all living beings, showcasing the importance of faith, compassion, and harmony in the world. The inclusion of crosses adds a powerful religious element, emphasizing the universal love and sacrifice that transcends species boundaries. Our artwork conveys a profound message of peace, reverence, and the interconnectedness of all creation. Animals are truly amazing and deserve our respect and care just like humans. They have feelings, families, and a right to live peacefully. Jesus’ love extended to all living beings, not just humans, as he sacrificed himself for the redemption of all creation. It’s crucial to treat animals with Kindness and equality as part of our responsibility to care for our Earth. If everyone does their part in looking after our planet, we can create a better future for all beings.
Yuna – Age 12 – Why should we care for animals
South Hampstead High School
As Mankind, we try to separate ourselves from animals. But the truth is, we are selfish. We think that because we are so intelligent and sophisticated, we are better than other animals but at the end of the day, we are no different from them.
Animal testing was popularised in the 40s, and widespread throughout the 20th century to the present day. For the sake of making sure that our skin doesn’t break out using a lotion, or making sure that our deodorant lasts longer, we sacrifice the lives of millions of animals, dying in labs so that we, as mankind, can say we look good.
In this piece I wanted to show that, with the woman applying cream on her arm and her reflection in the mirror showing a lab rabbit doing the same thing, that other animals are within us, and that they are suffering with us. In the background, there are family pictures of the humanoid rabbits, all beaten to a pulp by the lab experiments. I did them in black and white to show how much humans don’t care about them, and how we all turn a blind eye to animal testing. I also chose family pictures because of its familiarity and nostalgia, as most of us enter the house and see a family picture every day.
My piece was loosely based on the “Save Ralph” movement, which was a short film about a humanoid lab rabbit. I remember watching this when I was 9 years old and being confused as to how naive Ralph (the rabbit) was. I now realise, 3 years later, that Ralph is a portrayal of what we want rabbits to be like, and how we want the mainstream media to feel about animal testing.
In Christianity, Genesis 2:15 says, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” This shows us that in Christianity, humans were put into this world to take care of animals, but we have betrayed that over time.
We as human were supposed to take stewardship for the animals and to take responsibility for them, yet we kill them every single day for cosmetic tests.
I hope my piece reminds you that we are only hurting our equals in animal testing.