In celebration of its 10-year anniversary, Hereward Community Rail Partnership (CRP) has launched an art competition with the winning work to be displayed in railway stations along the route and beyond.
Everyone from young, budding Picassos to professional artists are being invited to put their creative talents to the test. The winners will get the unique opportunity to have their work displayed online and at railway stations, venues, and exhibitions along the Hereward Line and further afield in partnership with railway industry organisations.
The challenge is to create a piece of artwork that celebrates the Hereward Line and captures what people can see, visit, and experience, all through travelling by train in Fenland. It could be inspired by the unique Fenland landscape and heritage, rail travel or stations, or even the communities and destinations along the line.
The art competition was officially launched on Wednesday 5 July, during Hereward CRP’s coffee morning at March Station. The closing date for submissions is Friday 8 September and there are five entry categories:
• Colouring Fenland images (for ages 5-11).
• Junior Artist aged 5-11.
• Young Artist aged 12-18.
• Art Student (evidence of your place of study is required)
• Amateur Artist, aged 19 and over.
• Professional Artist, aged 19 and over.
The winning artworks will be used to help promote the Hereward Line, the importance of local historic railways and sustainable travel, and local tourism opportunities.
Cllr Chris Seaton, Chairman of the Hereward CRP, Fenland District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Transport and Chairman of the March Station Project Board, said: “This art competition is a fantastic opportunity for local artists to have their work seen by potentially millions of people! Not only at the five stations along the Hereward Line and on Hereward Line promotional items, but also online and in places across the local community and UK.
“We will be holding a ten-year anniversary art exhibition at one of our Hereward Line stations during November 2023 so the public can view the submitted entries and vote for a ‘people’s choice’ winner.
“The competition is open to everyone and with all levels of artistic ability – so whether you’re a professional, a hobbyist, somewhere in between or an interested member of the community, why not take part?”
More information, including full entry details and prizes, are available here.
