IT has been quite a month for talented art student Sam Auckland!

At the start of June, the Uxbridge pupil’s super-sized match box and matches were selected to be included in this year’s Young Artists’ Summer Show at the Royal Academy of Art. 

Now, the 16-year-old has learned his magnificent sculpture has been chosen for a prize by Rebecca Salter, President of the RA.

Sam’s entry was one of 17,700 submissions and he is one of 400 artists short-listed for the online exhibition which launches from July 12.

Sam, who attends Park Academy, said: ‘The idea to upscale the matchbox and matches came about because they are everyday items that are forgotten about.

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“Once I get an idea in my head to make something, I just have to do it.”

He will receive a £100 gift voucher for art materials as his prize.

Park Academy in Park View Road will also benefit and head of art Geraldine Mattis has selected an on-site workshop organised by the RA for students.

Ms Mattis said: ‘’It is phenomenal achievement by Sam and I’m so proud of him. This is a significant step in his artistic journey and he is one to watch without a doubt!”

There is also an opportunity for people in Hillingdon to support Sam through the People’s Choice Award. It allows the public to vote for their favourite artwork once the online exhibition is launched.