Entries open for art exhibition

Amateur artists are being encouraged to draw on their creative skills for the chance to scoop a £1,000 prize.

Durham County Council’s second annual Spring Open Art Exhibition will take place from Wednesday, 19 April to Sunday, 9 May at Locomotion, The National Railway Museum, Shildon.

Anyone can submit a piece for inclusion but the final selection will be made by a panel of expert judges from the art world. They will also select a winner who will receive a £1,000 prize, plus second and third place runners-up who will be awarded £500 and £250.

David Newell, Durham County Council Community Arts Coordinator, said: “Last year’s exhibition was so successful that this year we’re using a bigger venue so we can display more pieces.

“I’m sure people across the county will once again take up the challenge to get creative and make sure we have another impressive selection of work on view.

“Featured artists will also have the opportunity to sell their work and, with the arrival of the Tornado steam train on the weekend of 24 and 25 April, there are sure to be plenty of potential buyers.”

The closing date for submissions is Friday, 26 February. Artwork must be no larger than A2 and must be fitted with mirror plate hangings.

More information is available to download at www.nrm.org.uk/locomotion Alternatively, email David at david.newell@durham.gov.uk or call 07825 202 576.