The University of Newcastle, Australia

A University of Newcastle fine art honours student has received the highest award in the 2008 William Fletcher Foundation prizes.

Andy Devine, who is also a tutor in fine art at the University, has received a grant of $3000 to support his studies in printmaking and painting.

Mr Devine is one of three students from the University of Newcastle to receive a grant from the NSW William Fletcher Foundation. Gail Brown and Trudy Fennell each received grants of $1000.

Art Curator, Gillean Shaw, said the awards were a great result for the University of Newcastle, recognising the high calibre of its students.

"Eighteen awards were presented to students from art schools across the state, and three of the winners are students at the University of Newcastle," Ms Shaw said.

The William Fletcher Grants are awarded annually to outstanding young visual arts students who demonstrate excellence in painting, drawing, printmaking or stage design. The awards were established in 1985 to celebrate the life and commemorate the work of painter and printmaker William Fletcher.