Newquay Artist Captures National Acclaim for Nostalgic Amusement Arcade Painting

Newquay-based artist Diane Griffiths has achieved a remarkable back-to-back victory, securing the prestigious People’s Choice Award at the SAA Artists of the Year 2025 for her evocative painting of a local amusement arcade. This follows her win in the same category last year for a painting of a petrol station.

Key Takeaways

• Diane Griffiths has won the People’s Choice Award for the second consecutive year.
• Her latest winning artwork, “Insert Coin To Begin,” depicts a Newquay amusement arcade.
• The award was decided by public vote, highlighting the painting’s broad appeal.
• Judges praised the artwork for its “playful chaos” and celebration of seaside nostalgia.

A Double Triumph

Griffiths, who moved to Newquay in 2017, has once again resonated with the public, earning the top prize for her piece titled “Insert Coin To Begin.” The painting captures the vibrant, neon-lit atmosphere of Playland Amusements on Cliff Road, a scene that evokes fond memories for many.

“This award means a great deal to me because it was chosen by the public,” Griffiths shared. “‘Insert Coin To Begin’ is all about those shared memories and that universal feeling of being drawn to the games. For it to strike a chord with so many people really means a lot.”

Artistic Vision and Recognition

The judges lauded the painting for its “playful chaos,” describing it as a “celebration of tacky brilliance, small thrills, satisfying comfort food and the holiday nostalgia of an evening wandering through a seaside town.” This recognition underscores Griffiths’ ability to capture the essence of everyday scenes with a unique artistic perspective.

Last year, Griffiths won The People’s Choice Award 2024 with her painting “Driving Home,” a moody depiction of a Texaco garage in Newquay. This consecutive win solidifies her reputation and provides significant validation for her artistic direction.

The Colour of Night Series

“Insert Coin To Begin” is part of Griffiths’ ongoing series, “The Colour of Night.” This collection explores how natural and artificial light transform ordinary landscapes and scenes, revealing the hidden beauty in the mundane. Working with a mixed media of acrylic and oil on a square canvas, Griffiths, a self-taught artist, continues to explore the transformative power of light and perspective.

Sources

• Newquay artist wins award with painting of amusement arcade, BBC.
• Newquay Artist Wins back to back National People’s Choice Award for Nostalgic Nighttime, Cornwall’s Rewind Radio.