SCULPTORS, painters and photographers can win cash prizes for work inspired by the New Forest.

The New Forest Open Art competition returns for its sixth year after attracting 185 National Park-inspired entries last year.

Run by the New Forest National Park Authority in partnership with the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst, the competition will take submissions from artists, photographers or craftspeople on July 1 and 2 ahead of an exhibition at the Centre from July 14 to September 8.

The competition and the exhibition of artwork are sponsored by ExxonMobil at the Fawley Refinery, which has contributed prizes for the winners:First prize - £500; Second prize - £300; Third prize - £100 and People’s Prize - £100.

Alison Barnes, New Forest National Park Authority Chief Executive, said: ‘The New Forest is a special place, a place of limitless inspiration for our talented art community that draws on its beauty and traditions to create artwork of exceptional standard. The Open Art competition recognises and promotes the wealth of creative talent in the Forest. I am very much looking forward to seeing how this year’s entries interpret the special qualities of the landscape.

‘This competition is special because it helps connect people with our unique landscape through art year on year and these connections are an important way of helping us join people together to care for the New Forest.’

Hilary Marshall, New Forest Centre Manager, said: ‘The annual Open Art competition is a firm favourite with visitors and local artists alike, showcasing the great artistic talent within the Forest. The standard and diversity of artwork entered is increasing year on year and I am sure our competition judges will have a hard task ahead of them. We are delighted to be working with both the New Forest National Park Authority and ExxonMobil at the Fawley Refinery again to help support and encourage work within the creative community.’

Alison Jones, Community Affairs Manager of ExxonMobil at the Fawley Site, said: ‘The New Forest is a unique and special area, providing inspiration to both budding and established artists. The Open Art competition is a great way for the creative community to showcase their variety of talents and I am very much looking forward to seeing this year’s entries and the competition continue to grow in popularity.’

Application forms and further information at www.newforestcentre.org.uk or call 023 8028 3444.