ARTISTS are in with a chance of winning £1,000 and the opportunity to display their work in a new competition which launches today.

The Open Art Competition has been launched by Howard Flanagan's Art Unlimited gallery in Bridport.

The competition is open to all artists resident in the UK who must be 18 years and over on July 1, 2022.

Mr Flanagan opened his gallery in South Street earlier this year - a welcome addition to Bridport’s vibrant artistic scene.

Mr Flanagan has become known for his large, finely detailed paintings. In 2017 he was a finalist for The Sunday Time Watercolourist of the Year.

He said: "The purpose of this competition is to grow the Art Unlimited brand, and by bringing in new artists from far and wide to create a roll-on benefit to local businesses.

"We are keen to work closely with both the business community as well as schools and colleges to develop young talent and bring the best art possible into Bridport."

Mr Flanagan has managed to secure sponsorship for the competition from Dream Cottages, Furleigh Estate, Norrsken and Lyme Bay Dental and Implant Clinic.

All entries are to be submitted online between July 1 and September 12 and both 2D and 3D works of art that have been completed in the last four years may be submitted.

All works of art must be for sale. Artists may submit up to five pieces; there is a fee of £10 for one work, £20 for two, £28 for three, £35 for four, and £40 for five.

The first prize is £1,000 and a solo exhibition at Art Unlimited; the second prize is £500; the third prize is £250. The winner of the 'People's Choice' award receives £250.

The winner will be announced on Friday, October 21 at a private viewing where all those artists shortlisted will have their works exhibited at Art Unlimited.

The People’s Choice will be voted by visiting members of the public during a two-week exhibition from Saturday, October 22 to Saturday, November 5 with the winner announced on Saturday, November 12.

See www.art-unlimited.co.uk for full details on how to enter with terms and conditions.