Neda Koochakian Fard

AN artist from Iran who was given a bursary at the Hampstead School of Art sculpted a striking trophy that was handed to TV presenter Johny Pitts, as winner of the prestigious Jhalak prize for a book exploring the lives of black Europeans.

The talent of artist Neda Koochakian Fard was soon spotted at an arts class in Islington shortly after her arrival in Britain six years ago by her tutor Jane Ray.

Jane told Isabel Langtry, principal of HSoA, about her work – and Neda was given a bursary endowed by the well-known artist Frank Bowling.

Neda has also exhibited in Iran. She has called the sculpture “Rebirth”.