To coincide with the 10th anniversary of the Dorset Art Prize, organisers Bournemouth and Poole College are partnering with Arts University Bournemouth, the GIANT Gallery, and British contemporary artist and former student Stuart Semple.

The 2023 Dorset Art Prize officially opened for entries on Tuesday 1st August for anyone aged 11 and over, aiming to highlight creative talent across the county. This year’s theme is ‘The Environment’, with participants encouraged to use any visual medium including photography, digital art, fine art, 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 11 to 16, ages 16 to 18, and over 18s.

Stuart Palmer, Director Creative and Digital Industries at Bournemouth and Poole College, said: “We’re delighted to partner with a former College student turned successful and influential international artist, Stuart Semple, and The GIANT Gallery for this milestone anniversary. Arts University Bournemouth are partnering with us his year to help us to reach our creative talent pipeline across Dorset.

“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 23% less hours than in 2010. The Dorset Art Prize presents a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of creatives to showcase their talent and aligns with our mission to transform futures.

Stuart Semple, Founder and Director of the GIANT Gallery added: “The Dorset Art Prize is a brilliant way to celebrate the breadth of artistic talent across the region, and it’s a pleasure to host the competition at GIANT Gallery. There’s so much unrecognised creative talent here, and the competition gives many local young people an opportunity to flourish. I'm looking forward to seeing all the entries and curating an exhibition that shines a spotlight on our artistic county.”

Access and Participation Manager at Arts University Bournemouth, Dr Alex Blower, said: “The Dorset Art Prize is more important than ever before as it gives local schools, colleges, and communities a platform to unleash creative potential. We are proud to be part of this year’s prize to give more talented individuals a chance to thrive.”

Entries for the 2023 Dorset Art Prize close at midnight on Sunday 22nd October.

The shortlisted artwork will be showcased at the GIANT Gallery on Friday 24th November, where the winners will be revealed.

For more information, please visit www.thecollege.co.uk/dorset-art-prize