Bournemouth and Poole College is partnering with Lighthouse Poole for the 11th Dorset Art Prize, which is officially open for entries.
Founded by the College in collaboration with the Dorset Community Foundation Trust, the competition aims to celebrate the breadth of artistic talent across the county and is open to amateur and professional artists, aged 16 and over, to provide the opportunity to share their creativity.
This year’s theme is ‘Journey’, with participants encouraged to use any visual medium including photography, digital art, fine art, animation, film and sculpture.
Entry to the Dorset Art Prize is free, with prizes up for grabs ranging from £100 to £1,000. Category age groups are split between ages 16 to 18, and over 18s. Entries for the 2024 competition close at midnight on Sunday 17th November.
Stuart Palmer, Director Creative and Digital Industries at Bournemouth and Poole College, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Lighthouse. This multi-arts venue is a source of inspiration and pride to our community and the wider region, providing our community with a centre of artistic excellence. It’s passionate about providing opportunities for our community to experience the benefit the arts bring to individuals, communities and the cultural identity of the place in which we live.”
“The introduction of the Progress 8 curriculum in 2016 signalled a shift in school regulation which discouraged creative subjects being studied at GCSE level. Arts subjects are now taught for 49% less hours than in 2010. The Dorset Art Prize presents a fantastic opportunity for our local creative talent pipeline to showcase their work.”
Martha Earley, Creative Engagement Manager at Lighthouse. said: “We are delighted to be able to partner with and host the 11th Dorset Art Prize. At Lighthouse we love being able to showcase the best of artistic talent both locally and internationally and this includes the great work of the Dorset Art Prize.”
The shortlisted artwork will be showcased at Lighthouse Poole on Thursday 12th December, where the winners will be revealed. The Dorset Art prize show will run until Saturday 4th January, 2025.
