Pond life provides the inspiration for children’s art competition

Young artists can dip into their local pond for inspiration ahead of this year’s wildlife art competition run by East Hampshire District Council.

Children can submit any piece of art on the subject of pond life as part of the contest, launched by EHDC Cllr Diana Tennyson.

The competition, now in its third year, seeks to encourage young people to engage with the local environment and think about wildlife and their habitats.

Cllr Diana Tennyson said: “This is a fantastic competition that really challenges young people to look closely at the world around them.

“There is so much we need to do to protect our wonderful environment and that starts with encouraging future generations to have a respect and curiosity about nature and the plants and animals that surround us.

“I hope our young artists have a great time looking for artistic inspiration in their local ponds.”

The competition is split into four age groups: Four years and below, 5-7 years old, 8-11 years old, and 12-15 years old.

Entries can be submitted in any medium, the more creative the better, and will be judged by local artist and illustrator, Rachel Hudson.

Winning entries will be displayed in the gallery at Gilbert White’s House Museum, in Selborne, and at the Allen Gallery in Alton.

The winners in each category will receive a family entry pass to Gilbert White’s House Museum for a year.

The application form to enter this year’s art competition can be found below.