Local budding, amateur and professional artists are invited to take part in the ‘Great Gardens’ watercolour competition organised by the ISLAND Arts Centre to celebrate the historic occasion of King Charles III’s Coronation.
It has royal linkages with His Majesty being an avid watercolour painter. All paintings must be submitted by 12 noon on Tuesday 2nd May 2023.
This competition is part of the council’s King’s Coronation Programme and is open to all residents over the age of 18 living in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.
Eric Rainey, CVO, MBE, DL; the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Scott Carson; Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Leisure & Community Development Chairman and Councillor Hazel Legge, Chair of the council’s Coronation Working Group launched the competition at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn.
“'Watercolour painting is a very traditional but beautiful technique,” said Mayor Carson. “This style of painting has roots in many cultures across the globe. It may be the most challenging of mediums but it is often the entry point for those new to painting. I would encourage local artists to harness their watercolours and create a scenic delight to mark the new King this spring.”
Councillor McIntyre, speaking about the competition said: “This is an opportunity for artists of all ages and abilities to get involved in the King’s Coronation. His Majesty the King has painted many scenes from across the UK. We are lucky that one of his watercolours is on display in Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. The brief for the competition is simple - all entries should include anything from the Royal Gardens to inspirations from the artists own or favourite gardens.”
Applications can be made both digitally and in person. Those applicants who wish to submit their work in person, also have the option of entering their work into an exhibition of the competition artwork at the ISLAND Arts Centre.
Eyes on the prizes
Judging the entries will be a local professional watercolour artist and council representatives. The winners of the competition will be announced by Tuesday 30th May 2023.
The lucky winner of the competition will see their masterpiece made into a postcard that could travel the world between family and friends. The original will also become part of the Coronation archive at the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum.
For more information on this competition and how to apply before 12 noon on Tuesday 2nd May 2023 please go to www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/kingscoronation