The Atkinson, in partnership with The Arts Society Southport, invites anyone aged 18 or over with a connection to the Sefton Borough to take part in our fourth Poetry & Creative Writing Competition.
We welcome submissions of poetry, short stories, song lyrics, essays, letters, blogs, zines, or any other form of creative writing.
This year, the competition invites you to respond creatively to artworks featured in The Atkinson’s 150th Anniversary Exhibition. You may submit one entry of up to 1,000 words.
The exhibition showcases highlights from The Atkinson’s fine art collection, presented in the popular 19th-century ‘Salon Hang’ style—where artworks are displayed floor to ceiling. With nearly 3,000 pieces spanning the 17th to the 21st centuries, the collection includes major works as well as rarely seen pieces brought out of storage for this special occasion.
You are free to draw inspiration from any of the 200+ paintings on display. To help you get started, we’ve highlighted a small selection of works that you may choose to focus on.
All competition entries will be featured on The Atkinson’s website. Winners will receive prizes donated by The Arts Society Southport, and their work will be displayed in the Art Gallery for visitors to read and enjoy.
Download Entry Form: Word / PDF
Deadline for Entries: Sunday 19 October
Winners Announced: Monday 27 October
Prizegiving & Reading: Saturday 1 November
Email entries to: jemma.tynan@sefton.gov.uk
Postal entries to: Jemma Tynan, The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1DB.
The Atkinson may reject entries that it considers are inappropriate for any reason. Only original works will be accepted. Influences must be clearly referenced through the title, e.g. Rewritten Poem by Dylan Thomas
The entries will be reviewed by a panel appointed by The Atkinson. All works are judged on individual merit and the judges’ decision is final. No correspondence or discussion will be entered into.
View the 150th Anniversary Exhibition online here: theatkinson.co.uk/exhibition/150-anniversary-exhibition
