Marina launches annual sculpture competition

Mercia Marina has announced an annual international sculpture prize designed to celebrate the best established and up-and-coming artists of today.

The launch of the competition was recently marked with the unveiling of a three-metre-high oak carving of Neptune, the latest of several art installations already commissioned by the leisure destination.

With the competition limited in its inaugural year to five shortlisted applicants, a prize of £10,000 will be paid to the winning artist.

In addition, the marina’s owners have pledged to purchase the first-placed piece and install it permanently on site.

All entries will be displayed at the marina between 10 and 11 September, where a judging panel, including Mark Richards, a fellow of the London-based Royal Society of Sculptors, will choose an outright winner.

The remaining works will either be purchased or auctioned by the marina or returned to their creators.

John Thornton, principal shareholder of Mercia Marina, said: “The main purpose behind this annual prize is to give an outlet to the many artists out there to showcase their incredible talent.

“And we are delighted to have confirmed the involvement of the Royal Society of Sculptors through guest judge Mark Richards.

“Sculpture rarely fails to captivate its audience, particularly when it’s created on a scale that can be viewed from many angles and distances.

“As an art form, sculpture also has a unique ability to complement and enhance its surrounding environment.

“The beautiful and tranquil location we are so lucky to have at the marina, with its expanse of water and wildlife trails, lends itself perfectly to sculpture.

“We’ve already commissioned several exceptional pieces, but we’re keen to install more in order to create a destination not only for boating, holiday lodges, shopping and relaxation, but as a champion of the arts.”

Submissions for the Mercia Marina Sculpture Prize can be created with any material suitable for year-round outdoor display, though the organisers will particularly favour works that use sustainable materials.

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