A work of art that highlights the high value we place on the weight of handwritten words has won the annual Bishop's Art Prize.

Natalie Moles-Smith's winning collection of letters cast in solid bronze, Epistle, is among 24 works from the competition on exhibition at Norwich Cathedral.

The works were all made by students from the Norwich University of the Arts in response to the brief of Unexpected Blessings, set by the Bishop of Norwich.

Ms Moles-Smith, a BA Fine Art student, said: 'From initial concept through to production, Epistle has been a pleasure to develop and to receive this accolade is a real high point in my artistic career.'

The annual award invites students in their final year of study to submit work that explores Christian themes, and this year's judging panel was formed of the Rt Revd Graham James, NUA vice-chancellor John Last, fine art course leader Carl Rowe, and Susan Gunn, the winner of the 2003 prize.

Bishop Graham said: 'This year's exhibition is of exceptional quality. The students have responded to the brief with imagination and flair. In the judging I could not decide simply on the top three so created an extra third prize.

'The winning entry is a beautifully executed bronze based on handwritten letters which have become a special blessing in our age where they have become much rarer.'

Hollie Quinn, a BA Texiles student, won second prize, while Christine Leech (MA Fine Art) and Anna Cox (BA Fine Art) were joint winners of the third prize.

The exhibition is open until Saturday, April 23, at The Hostry at Norwich Cathedral. Admission is free and opening hours are 9.30am – 4.30pm (noon to 3pm on Sundays).

Do you have an arts story? Email emma.knights@archant.co.uk