<p>Sarah Packer’s piece titled ‘Beggar Woman, Rome’ is among the 10 finalists in the Photography category of the competition. The black and white photograph depicts a woman asking for money in a side street of Rome which Sarah witnessed during her travels. She describes her signature style as “in the realm of documentary/photojournalistic photography which coincides with my love of travel and culture.”</p> <p>The decision to study locally at the Plymouth College of Art was encouraged by Sarah’s family and she believes it was a “great decision”.</p> <p>“I was amazed at the facilities available; the large darkrooms, print finishing and negative scanning rooms and the Equipment Resource Centre, which is a treasure trove of photographic equipment. I have learnt so much in the past year that I can apply to all aspects of my work and I can’t wait for the 2nd year to refine these skills and hopefully try out more of my own style that got me to the final stages of the Signature Art Prize competition.”</p> <p>Sarah’s piece was one of over 500 submissions from around the world, entering for a chance of winning representation by DegreeArt.com and one of four cash prizes of £1,000. The winners will be announced on Tuesday 25th September 2012 at a gala exhibition in Spitalfields Market, London. Sarah’s entry piece is available to purchase as a black and white print from www.degreeart.com.</p>